Low dose lidocaine infusions (3055)
Key points below
What is lidocaine?
Lidocaine is a medicine that can help relieve pain. If your child does not have pain relief with other medicines, lidocaine may be given.
It is used for pain that is hard to control. This may include:
- Pain after surgery
- Headaches
- Nerve pain
- Pain from sickle cell disease
- Many other types of pain
How is lidocaine given?
Lidocaine infusions are used to give medicine slowly, through an IV. An IV is a small tube that goes into the vein. Infusions are also called drips. The amount of time the medicine is given is different for each child. Your child’s care team will decide how fast the medicine will be given and when it will be stopped.
What side effects might happen during the infusion?
Possible side effects include:
- Numbness, tingling
- Metal-like taste in the mouth
- Headache, blurred vision, or dizziness
- Fast or slow heart rate
- Blood pressure changes
- Tremors or muscle movements
- Throwing up
How will my child be watched?
- Monitors will be used to watch their heart rate and oxygen level.
- Staff will ask about side effects. Your child’s blood pressure and temperature will be watched.
ALERT: Talk to your child’s doctor or nurse if you have any concerns or if your child:
- Is not getting enough pain relief.
- Has any side effects from the medicine.
- Has special health care needs not covered by this information.
For other health and wellness information, check out this resource:
https://kidshealth.org/ChildrensWi/en/parents
This sheet was created to help you care for your child or family member. It does not take the place of medical care. Talk with your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.