One important role of 503B pharmacies, such as Olympia Compounding Pharmacy, is to compound products on the FDA’s drug shortage list when a national shortage of that product occurs. This is in accordance with section 503B of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). Olympia Pharmacy is currently compounding lidocaine injectable, which is currently on the national drug shortage list. Learn more about why 503B pharmacies are indispensable during drug shortages.
What is Lidocaine?
Lidocaine hydrochloride (Xylocaine) is a local anesthetic used as a numbing agent for minor outpatient medical procedures. Lidocaine works by blocking nerve signals inside the body for a period of time. Prior to outpatient procedures, such as sclerotherapy, physicians will administer a lidocaine injectable to numb the area they’ll be working on and help prevent pain or discomfort for the patient. After administration, lidocaine is effective very quickly and will continue to be effective for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Olympia Pharmacy and Lidocaine
While Lidocaine remains on the FDA drug shortage list, Olympia Pharmacy is compounding 1% and 2% lidocaine injections.
- 1% Concentration, 30ml MDV
- 2% Concentration, 30ml MDV
Lidocaine Injectable Uses
The most common use for lidocaine is to prepare an area of the body prior to an invasive medical procedure. It helps block the nerve signals and soothe any pain that would accompany the following procedures:
- Sclerotherapy
- Minor Surgery
- Needle Punctures
- Stitching
- Insertion of a Catheter
- Insertion of a Breathing Tube
In addition to lidocaine injectable offerings, Olympia also carries various strengths of lidocaine topical gel. This gel is used prior to less invasive procedures, such as botox.
Other uses for lidocaine include treating severe joint pain from arthritis, preparation for an epidural, and treating irregular heartbeats and seizures.
Side Effects
With the use of lidocaine, side effects similar to those of other amide local anesthetic agents may occur. More common side effects include redness, itchiness and warmth of the skin. Less common effects include bruising, bleeding, burning or swelling at the site of the injection. Remaining under the supervision of a medical physician is recommended for optimal safety.
How To Get Started with Lidocaine Treatment
Olympia Pharmacy is currently compounding both lidocaine 1% and lidocaine 2% injectables, as well as various strengths of topical gel. For more information and to order lidocaine injectable through Olympia, please fill out our contact form and we’ll send you the necessary paperwork to get started.