Reduction in Lidocaine Clearance during Continuous Infusion and by Coadministration of Propranolol

Abstract

LIDOCAINE is commonly administered parenterally for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. The use of this drug is complicated by its narrow therapeutic index.¹ Any reduction in its metabolic clearance will lead to increased accumulation during long-term infusion and will increase the likelihood of toxicity. This study assesses the influence of prolonged infusion of lidocaine and of coadministration of propranolol on the clearance of lidocaine in healthy volunteers. We found that both prolonged infusion of lidocaine and coadministration of propranolol reduced the clearance of lidocaine from the plasma.MethodsEleven healthy volunteers, eight men and three women between 18 and 25 . . .