A lidocaine intravenous infusion is when local anaesthetic is given into a vein, by a pump, over approximately one to one and a half hours. It is prescribed to patients who have widespread chronic pain and pain from the nervous system (neuropathic). Although it is not specifically licensed for use in this way it is known to have beneficial results.
How does it work?
It works by decreasing both spontaneous nerve activity and the spread of pain signals in nerve fibres. In other words it quietens the misbehaving nerves, thereby reducing the pain.
What does the infusion involve?
This treatment requires you to attend Day Procedures Unit for a morning session, where you will meet the doctor. You will be taken to the theatre recovery suite for your treatment. During the infusion you will be monitored using a heart monitor and your blood pressure, pulse and breathing will be recorded regularly throughout the session. You will be allowed home after a period of rest which is approximately 30 minutes.
The treatment works over many days so you will not know how effective it has been on the day. After your treatment you will be given information regarding any follow up.
What are the side effects of lidocaine intravenous infusion?
Fortunately serious side effects or complications are very rare and we minimise the risks by monitoring you at regular intervals. However, even at the recommended dose, side effects can occur. These include dizziness, headaches, drowsiness, tingling or numbness around your mouth, metallic taste, garbled speech, tunnel vision, ringing in your ears or a tremor, a sense of being drunk and nausea.
If any of these side effects do occur, they usually disappear once the infusion is slowed down or stopped.
Recognised potential complications of lidocaine intravenous infusions include low or high blood pressure, a slow or fast pulse rate, irregular heartbeats, fainting, seizures or allergic reactions to lidocaine, which, in extremely rare cases, can lead to death.
Benefits
If this treatment helps then you may find a decrease in pain from severe to a more manageable level. You may be able to decrease the amount of pain killers you regularly take and you might be able to do more. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that this particular treatment will work for all patients.
Is there anything I should or should not do?
It is very important for you to tell us if you have had:
- recent heart, liver, or kidney problems
- irregular heartbeat or abnormal ECG seizure disorder
- reactions to local anaesthetics
- also, if you are pregnant it is not recommended that you have this procedure
You will need to arrange for someone to take you home on the day of your treatment.
- Do not drive on the day of the procedure
- You can usually begin normal activities the following day
- Take all your medicines as usual
If you experience no pain relief, don't be discouraged. Talk with the pain team for other alternatives.
Contact information
If you have any questions, please contact the patient call centre who will arrange a telephone appointment with one of the pain team on telephone 024 7686 5050
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