Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is a common side effect associated with the administration of lidocaine?

1. Drowsiness

2. Hypotension

3. Seizures

4. Nausea

The correct answer is: Seizures

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic medication that can affect the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. Among its side effects, seizures can occur, particularly if the drug is administered in excessive quantities or if rapid administration leads to elevated plasma levels. Lidocaine works by inhibiting sodium channels, which can disrupt normal neuronal firing and decrease the threshold for neuronal excitability, leading to seizures. While drowsiness, hypotension, and nausea can also be side effects associated with lidocaine, they commonly manifest at different levels of drug exposure and are not as directly linked to the nervous system effects seen with lidocaine's electrical activity in high doses. Understanding the pharmacodynamics of lidocaine helps clarify why seizures are a notable concern in its administration. This highlights the importance of careful monitoring of dosages to prevent such severe adverse effects.