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H2-RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS AND LIDOCAINE

Medical Diagnosis and Drugs, Medications
Cimetidine modestly reduces the clearance of intravenous lidocaine and raises its serum levels (by about 30% within 6 hours in one study). Lidocaine toxicity may occur if the dosage is not reduced. However, not all patients are affected.
Monitor all patients closely for evidence of toxicity and, if possible, consider checking serum lidocaine levels regularly. A reduced infusion rate may be needed. Ranitidine does not interact and so would appear to be a suitable alternative to cimetidine.
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