Lidocaine Infusion

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic commonly used to numb tissues. In low doses, when given through an intravenous (IV) infusion, lidocaine can help reduce chronic nerve-related pain by calming overactive nerves in the body.

A lidocaine infusion is the administration of lidocaine directly into the bloodstream through an IV over a set period of time (usually 30–120 minutes). It is used to treat neuropathic (nerve) pain and chronic pain syndromes that haven't responded well to other treatments.

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
• Neuropathic pain (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia)
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic daily headaches or migraines
• Central pain syndromes (e.g., spinal cord injury pain)

Lidocaine reduces the sensitivity of pain-signaling nerves by blocking sodium channels, which can help decrease pain intensity and improve function. It does not cause numbness like when used for local anesthesia.

• Tell your provider if you have heart, liver, or kidney conditions.
• Let them know if you are taking antiarrhythmic medications or have a history of lidocaine allergy.
• Eat a light meal before the infusion unless told otherwise.
• Continue other medications as directed.

• You will be in a monitored setting, such as an outpatient infusion center.
• An IV line will be placed in your arm or hand.
• The infusion usually lasts 30 to 120 minutes, depending on the dose and protocol.
• Your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels will be monitored throughout.
• You may relax, read, or rest during the infusion.

What to Expect:

• Some people feel pain relief within hours; others may take a few days.
• Relief may last days to weeks or longer and may improve with repeated infusions.
• You may feel slightly drowsy or lightheaded afterward — this usually resolves within a few hours.

Activity:

• Avoid driving or operating machinery for the rest of the day.
• Rest and hydrate after your infusion.

• Relief varies by individual and condition.
• Some patients may receive a series of infusions (e.g., weekly or monthly).
• Your provider will track your response and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

• Minimally invasive
• May reduce or eliminate the need for opioids
• Often well tolerated