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Lidocaine is a prescription medication used to prevent pain before procedures or to relieve pain due to certain conditions. Lidocaine belongs to a group of drugs called local anesthetics. These stop nerves from sending pain signals to the brain.

This medication comes in several topical forms, including a patch to be applied to the skin (transdermal), ointment, cream, and oral solution. Lidocaine is an ingredient in some over-the-counter topical pain relievers. This page refers to the prescription forms of lidocaine.

This medication is also available in an injectable form to be given directly into a vein (IV) or for infiltration and nerve block by a healthcare professional.

Common side effects of topical lidocaine include irritation at site of application. Common side effects of injectable lidocaine include confusion, nervousness, and numbness. Lidocaine may also cause dizziness and drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you. 

Serious side effects have been reported with lidocaine. See the “Lidocaine Precautions” section.

Topical:

Common side effects of topical lidocaine include irritation at site of application, including burning, blisters, bruising, redness, or swelling at the site of application. Lidocaine ointment, gel, and cream, as well as the oral solution, may also cause vomiting, seizures, ringing in the ears, and irregular heartbeat. Lidocaine ophthalmic gel may cause headache or bloodshot eyes.

Lidocaine may also cause dizziness and drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you. 

Injectable:

Common side effects of injectable lidocaine include confusion, nervousness, numbness, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, vomiting, seizures, ringing in the ears, headache, and shivering.

This is not a complete list of lidocaine side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Store lidocaine at room temperature.

Keep this and all medicines out of the reach of children.