Lignocaine, also known as lidocaine, is a widely used local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic medication. Its duration of action is a critical factor in its efficacy and application, varying based on several key elements including the formulation used, the route of administration, and individual patient metabolism. Understanding these variables is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes and safety.
The effectiveness and duration of lignocaine can be significantly influenced by the concentration and volume of the solution administered. Higher concentrations and larger volumes generally provide a longer duration of action. Furthermore, the presence of epinephrine (adrenaline) in lignocaine formulations is a common practice that prolongs its effects. Epinephrine causes vasoconstriction at the injection site, which reduces the local blood flow. This decreased blood flow limits the systemic absorption of lignocaine, thereby extending its local anesthetic effect and also reducing the potential for systemic toxicity.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Lidocaine |
| Class | Amide-type local anesthetic, Class Ib antiarrhythmic |
| Primary Uses | Local anesthesia, treatment of ventricular arrhythmias |
| Mechanism of Action | Blocks voltage-gated sodium channels, preventing nerve impulse propagation and stabilizing cardiac membranes |
| Onset of Action | Rapid (typically 2-5 minutes) |
| Duration of Action (Unmodified) | 30-60 minutes (infiltration anesthesia) |
| Duration of Action (with Epinephrine) | Up to 2 hours or more |
| Metabolism | Primarily in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP1A2 and CYP3A4) |
| Half-life | Approximately 1.5-2 hours (variable) |
| Excretion | Renal (unchanged drug and metabolites) |
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