lidocaine

American  

[lahy-duh-keyn] / ˈlaɪ dəˌkeɪn /

noun

Pharmacology.

1. a synthetic crystalline powder, C 14 H 22 N 2 O, used as a local anesthetic and also in the management of certain arrhythmias.

---

lidocaine British  

/ ˈlaɪdəˌkeɪn /

noun

1. Also called: lignocaine.  a powerful local anaesthetic administered by injection, or topically to mucous membranes. Formula: C 14 H 22 N 2 O.HCl.H 2 O

---

lidocaine Scientific  

/ lī′də-kān′ /

1. A synthetic amide, C ₁₄ H ₂₂ N ₂ O, used chiefly in the form of its hydrochloride as a local anesthetic.

---

Etymology

Origin of lidocaine

(acetani)lid(e) + -o- + -caine, extracted from cocaine (to designate an anesthetic)

Example Sentences

She said the calves’ reaction to the hot iron indicates that pain medication, such as lidocaine, was not applied before the procedure.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

The numbing lidocaine was injected first and sprayed down my windpipe, making me feel as if I were drowning.

From Slate • Apr. 18, 2026

According to the guidelines, the topical anesthetic lidocaine “might be useful for reducing patient pain” when injected as a local anesthetic or applied topically as a numbing gel, cream or spray.

From Salon • Aug. 14, 2024

Doctors might also offer a topical lidocaine gel or spray, but the evidence on its effectiveness is mixed, Goldstein said.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 14, 2023

“The local anesthesia we use is usually lidocaine, which doesn’t disrupt the mental abilities of our patients, so they are able to drive themselves home,” he said in an email.

From New York Times • Mar. 25, 2023