Solution for injection - (2%) 20 mg/ml

Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic of the amide type and an antiarrhythmic of the class I b. Lidocaine decreases the permeability of the neuronal cell membrane to Na⁺ ions and binds competitively to calcium ions. Thus, lidocaine inhibits the signal generation and conduction in all types of sensory, motoric and autonomic nerves; this action is reversible. The antiarrhythmic action of lidocaine consists in shortening the refractory period of Purkinje fibers, inhibiting the electric activity of depolarized arrhythmogenic tissues. Consequently, lidocaine is effective in arrhythmias associated with depolarization, for example during glycoside intoxication and ischemias.

Lidocaine is ineffective when given orally, but it is effective when given parenterally. During local anaesthesia, it is rapidly absorbed from the injection site and it is a local anaesthetic with a rapid onset of action, intermediate duration (about 1.5 hours) and low toxicity. Peak plasma concentration is achieved after 30 minutes to 2 hours after intramuscular injection. Therapeutic levels of lidocaine in arrhythmias vary between 1.5 mcg / mL to 6 mcg / mL. Plasma levels higher than 4 mcg / mL are associated with toxic effects including dizziness and drowsiness.

Lidokaine solution for injection is indicated in the following conditions:

as a local anesthetic in peripheral and locoregional anesthesia; ventricular arrhythmia, especially after myocardial infarction.