Which of the following is a potential adverse effect of lignocaine?

Which of the following is a potential adverse effect of lignocaine?

• A. Severe allergic reactions
• B. Ventricular dysrhythmias
• C. Increased respiratory rate
• D. Excessive salivation

Answer: (B)

Ventricular dysrhythmias are indeed a potential adverse effect of lignocaine, commonly known as lidocaine, which is frequently used as a local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic agent. Lignocaine affects cardiac tissue by blocking sodium channels, which can impact the conduction of electrical impulses in the heart. If used in excessive doses or in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, lignocaine can lead to disruptions in the heart's rhythm, resulting in various types of ventricular dysrhythmias. This highlights the importance of careful dosing and monitoring when administering lignocaine, particularly in individuals with a higher risk of cardiac issues. In contrast, while severe allergic reactions can occur with any medication, they are not a frequently reported adverse effect specific to lignocaine. Increased respiratory rate is not typically associated with lignocaine and is more indicative of other types of medication or underlying conditions. Excessive salivation is also not a common side effect of lignocaine; rather, it may occur due to other drug classes, particularly those affecting the autonomic nervous system. Understanding these specifics is crucial for safe and effective use of lignocaine in practice.

Ventricular dysrhythmias are indeed a potential adverse effect of lignocaine, commonly known as lidocaine, which is frequently used as a local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic agent. Lignocaine affects cardiac tissue by blocking sodium channels, which can impact the conduction of electrical impulses in the heart. If used in excessive doses or in patients with pre-existing heart conditions, lignocaine can lead to disruptions in the heart's rhythm, resulting in various types of ventricular dysrhythmias. This highlights the importance of careful dosing and monitoring when administering lignocaine, particularly in individuals with a higher risk of cardiac issues.

In contrast, while severe allergic reactions can occur with any medication, they are not a frequently reported adverse effect specific to lignocaine. Increased respiratory rate is not typically associated with lignocaine and is more indicative of other types of medication or underlying conditions. Excessive salivation is also not a common side effect of lignocaine; rather, it may occur due to other drug classes, particularly those affecting the autonomic nervous system. Understanding these specifics is crucial for safe and effective use of lignocaine in practice.