What is a common adverse effect associated with local anesthesia overdose?

A common adverse effect associated with local anesthesia overdose is respiratory distress. This is primarily due to the potential for systemic toxicity when local anesthetic agents are absorbed into the bloodstream in excessive amounts.

Local anesthetics can affect the central nervous system and cardiovascular system, leading to a range of symptoms. Respiratory distress can occur as a result of central nervous system stimulation followed by depression, which may lead to reduced consciousness and impaired respiratory drive. In severe cases, especially with amide-type local anesthetics, respiratory failure can occur, necessitating immediate medical intervention.

While hypertension and gastrointestinal upset can occur under different circumstances, they are not primary concerns with local anesthetic overdose. Skin rash is generally associated with allergic reactions rather than an overdose scenario. Thus, respiratory distress stands out as a significant and recognizable effect that arises from an overdose of local anesthetics.