From the FDA Drug Label
Lidocaine Hydrochloride Oral Topical Solution, USP (Viscous) 2% should be used with extreme caution if the mucosa in the area of application has been traumatized, since under such conditions there is the potential for rapid systemic absorption In the setting of teething pain, Lidocaine Hydrochloride Oral Topical Solution, USP (Viscous) 2% should generally not be used. For other conditions, the use of the product in patients less than 3 years of age should be limited to those situations where safer alternatives are not available or have been tried but failed.
Yes, lidocaine can be used in an oral solution, but with extreme caution and strict adherence to the recommended dosage and administration guidelines. The solution is available as Lidocaine Hydrochloride Oral Topical Solution, USP (Viscous) 2% and should be used with caution, especially in patients under the age of 3 years 1. Key considerations include:
- Traumatized mucosa: use with caution to avoid rapid systemic absorption
- Teething pain: generally not recommended
- Patients under 3 years: use only when safer alternatives are not available or have failed 1
From the Research
Lidocaine can be used in oral solutions for various purposes, including numbing the mouth and throat to relieve pain from conditions like mouth sores, dental procedures, or sore throats, as supported by the most recent study 2. The use of lidocaine in oral solutions is a common practice, with formulations such as viscous lidocaine 2% solution being used to swish in the mouth and then spit out, or applied directly to affected areas using a cotton swab. For adults, a typical dose is 15 ml (one tablespoon) swished for about one minute, used every three hours as needed, not exceeding eight doses in 24 hours, as seen in various studies 3, 4, 5, 6. However, it's essential to use lidocaine oral solutions carefully, as excessive absorption can lead to serious side effects, including cardiac issues, as highlighted in a case report 4. Patients should avoid eating or drinking for 60 minutes after use, since the numbing effect can interfere with swallowing and potentially cause choking. Lidocaine works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the treated area, providing pain relief for approximately 30-60 minutes per application, as demonstrated in a study on lidocaine spray applied to oral mucosa 3. Key considerations for the use of lidocaine in oral solutions include:
- Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed and under medical supervision
- Monitoring for signs of excessive absorption or toxicity, such as numbness, tingling, or dizziness
- Avoiding use in patients with a history of allergic reactions to lidocaine or other local anesthetics
- Using the solution only for the intended purpose and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In terms of specific formulations, lidocaine 8 mg sore throat lozenges have been shown to be effective in treating acute pharyngitis, as demonstrated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III study 2. Overall, lidocaine can be a useful and effective option for managing oral pain, but its use requires careful consideration and monitoring to minimize the risk of adverse effects.