General Drug Information and Indications

Lidocaine local anesthetic for regional nerve blocks, infiltration anesthesia, and topical analgesia. Amide-type local anesthetic (lidocaine HCl). Mechanism: reversibly blocks voltage-gated sodium channels → inhibits sodium influx during depolarization → prevents action potential propagation in sensory and motor nerves. Rapid onset (3–5 min); duration 45–90 min. Also Class IB antiarrhythmic for ventricular arrhythmias. Key information Lidocaine — see lidocaine entry. Multiple formulations — confirm correct concentration. Do not use with epinephrine for ring blocks.

How to Give this Medication

Local anesthetic: infiltrate SQ or perineural at target site; aspirate before injection. IV (antiarrhythmic): dilute; slow IV bolus or CRI. Do not use epinephrine-containing formulations IV or in distal extremities. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

CNS toxicity (intravascular injection or overdose): tremors, excitement, seizures, respiratory arrest. Cardiovascular: bradycardia, arrhythmias, hypotension, cardiovascular collapse (high systemic levels). Tissue myopathy at injection site (equine — high-volume IM). Methemoglobinemia (very rare, amide class).

Precautions

For animals See lidocaine. Avoid rapid IV infusion. Cats and horses: more sensitive to CNS toxicity. Do not use epinephrine-containing formulations on extremities, ears, or digits. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Local anesthetic — if accidentally self-injected, seek emergency medical attention (cardiovascular toxicity). Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

This is a veterinary emergency. Lidocaine overdose causes cardiac arrhythmias and seizures. Immediate veterinary intervention required.

Xylocaine dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
XYLOCAINE 2% JELLY: LIDOCAINE HCL 2%——1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)