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Lidocaine Infusion

A targeted treatment for chronic nerve-related pain

  • Treatment guide
  • Advanced Pain
  • 2 min read
On this page
  1. What Is Lidocaine?
  2. What Is a Lidocaine Infusion?
  3. Conditions Treated
  4. How Does It Work?
  5. Before the Infusion
  6. During the Infusion
  7. After the Infusion
  8. Follow-Up and Frequency
  9. Benefits of Lidocaine Infusion

What Is Lidocaine?

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.

What Is a Lidocaine Infusion?

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.

Conditions Treated

  • 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)

How Does It Work?

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.

  1. Before the Infusion

    • 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.

  2. During the Infusion

    • 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.

  3. After 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.

Follow-Up and Frequency

  • 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.

Benefits of Lidocaine Infusion

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

More treatments

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Ready to Find Relief?

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a lidocaine infusion, please contact Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah below. Take the first step toward managing your chronic pain!