<p>Lidocaine for infiltration and nerve block should be employed only by clinicians who are well versed in diagnosis and management of dose-related toxicity. The safety and effectiveness of lidocaine depend on proper dosage, correct technique, adequate precautions, and readiness for emergencies. Standard text books should be consulted for specific techniques and precautions for various regional anaesthetic procedures. Resuscitative equipment, oxygen and other resuscitative drugs should be available for immediate use.<br />
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It should be used cautiously in patients with epilepsy, impaired cardiac conduction, bradycardia, impaired respiratory function and in patients with impaired hepatic function, if the dose or site of administration is likely to result in high blood levels. The effect of local anaesthetics may be reduced if an injection is made into an inflamed or infected area. Repeated doses of lidocaine may cause significant increases in blood levels with each repeated dose because of slow accumulation of the drug or its metabolites. Tolerance to elevated blood levels varies with the status of the patient. Careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory vital signs and the patient&#39;s state of consciousness should be accomplished after each local anaesthetic injection.</p>