What side effect is particularly associated with the use of lidocaine?

What side effect is particularly associated with the use of lidocaine?

• A. Vasoconstriction
• B. Neuropathy
• C. CNS toxicity
• D. Dermatitis

Answer: (C)

CNS toxicity is a side effect that is particularly associated with the use of lidocaine. This phenomenon can occur when lidocaine concentrations in the bloodstream become high enough to affect the central nervous system. Symptoms of CNS toxicity may include tinnitus, agitation, seizures, or even respiratory depression, depending on the severity of the condition. Lidocaine acts by blocking sodium channels, which are essential for the generation and conduction of action potentials in neurons. When central nervous system concentrations rise, the normal function of these neurons is disrupted, leading to clinical manifestations of toxicity. Understanding the potential for CNS toxicity is crucial for clinicians to ensure proper dosing and administration of lidocaine, especially in procedures where the local anesthetic is administered in large volumes or in patients with compromised hepatic function, as metabolism of lidocaine can be impaired in such cases. Monitoring for signs and symptoms can aid in early identification and management of this side effect.

CNS toxicity is a side effect that is particularly associated with the use of lidocaine. This phenomenon can occur when lidocaine concentrations in the bloodstream become high enough to affect the central nervous system. Symptoms of CNS toxicity may include tinnitus, agitation, seizures, or even respiratory depression, depending on the severity of the condition.

Lidocaine acts by blocking sodium channels, which are essential for the generation and conduction of action potentials in neurons. When central nervous system concentrations rise, the normal function of these neurons is disrupted, leading to clinical manifestations of toxicity.

Understanding the potential for CNS toxicity is crucial for clinicians to ensure proper dosing and administration of lidocaine, especially in procedures where the local anesthetic is administered in large volumes or in patients with compromised hepatic function, as metabolism of lidocaine can be impaired in such cases. Monitoring for signs and symptoms can aid in early identification and management of this side effect.