Xylocaine spray | Xylocaine

Xylocaine spray

Xylocaine is used in dentistry, otorhinolaryngology and gynecology as a spray to numb the mucous membrane (especially the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, throat and vagina). Indications for this are minor surgical procedures, endoscopies such as gastroscopy and wound care of the affected mucous membranes. Xylocaine spray can also be used to anaesthetize the larynx during endotracheal intubation, i.e. the insertion of a breathing tube into the neck. The spray has to act for a few minutes and the effect lasts for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Gel

Xylocaine is also used as a component of a lubricating gel that facilitates the insertion of endoscopes, breathing tubes and bladder catheters. The use of this gel is intended to facilitate gliding and reduce the risk of injury. On the other hand, the addition of xylocaine is intended to have an anaesthetic effect during procedures that are perceived as unpleasant.

Active ingredient and effect of xylocaine

Common side effects of injecting xylocaine are skin irritation, redness and burning, which usually disappears when the anesthesia sets in. Pain and an increase in blood pressure may also occur. Rare side effects are hypersensitivity reactions with hives and side effects on the heart and brain when accidentally injected into a blood vessel. These side effects include persistent dizziness, tingling, ringing in the ears, disorientation, visual disturbances, tremors, cramps, unconsciousness, respiratory disturbances, water retention in the tissues, drop in blood pressure, worsening of a heart rhythm disorder, circulatory disturbances, respiratory cramps, shortness of breath, persistent paralysis and sensation disorders. Xylocaine can be fatal if dosed too high.

Dosage

The dosage of xylocaine depends strongly on the intended use and the form of application. Basically, a distinction must be made between local application as an anaesthetic and the use of xylocaine as a heart-effective drug when administered intravenously – in the latter case, the recommended dosage is approximately 1-1.5mg/kg body weight; for 80kg body weight, this corresponds to 120mg. A systemic effect is explicitly undesirable under local anesthesia.

However, small amounts of the drug always enter the circulation, and this effect is differently pronounced at different sites of action. When applied to subcutaneous fatty tissue with poor blood supply, less active ingredient enters the circulation than, for example, when applied to the pleura. The general recommendation is not to exceed a daily dose of 200mg.

If xylocaine is injected together with adrenaline, which reduces the blood circulation locally, a total dose of 500mg can be administered. However, these guideline values for adults should take into account individual characteristics such as body weight. Xylocaine is used as a 0.5-5% injection solution or ointment, depending on the intended use.