Lidocaine viscous 2% (oral solution) is a prescription topical anesthetic (numbing agent) for the mouth and throat. It’s basically lidocaine hydrochloride at 2% concentration (20 mg per mL) in a thick, flavored liquid (often banana‐flavored). This viscous solution is used only by mouth (swished, gargled, or applied to the gums or sore areas). Its main use is to temporarily numb (“anesthetize”) irritated or inflamed mucous membranes in the mouth and pharynx. For example, it helps relieve pain from canker sores (aphthous ulcers), stomatitis, sore gums, or a sore throat, and it’s often used to suppress the gag reflex during dental or medical procedures.
Because lidocaine is a potent anesthetic, this medication must be used exactly as prescribed. Typical directions are to dose a specific small volume (often using a dosing syringe or cup), swish it in the mouth for a short time (for example 1–2 minutes), and then spit out the excess (any small swallowed amount in adults is usually absorbed and metabolized, but large ingestions must be avoided). If used correctly, it provides rapid pain relief with minimal systemic effects.
Important precautions: Lidocaine 2% viscous carries a strong warning against use in very young children. Fatal overdoses (seizures, heart and breathing arrest) have been reported in infants and toddlers when the solution was mistakenly swallowed or overused. Therefore, it is never given to teething infants, and use in children under ~3 years is extremely limited. Even in older children and adults, the total dose per hour/day must not be exceeded (per the label). Other precautions: avoid contact with open wounds beyond the mouth, do not use if allergic to local anesthetics, and use carefully if the patient has heart or liver problems.
In summary, Lidocaine viscous 2% is a thick oral rinse (topical solution) containing lidocaine that dentists and doctors use to numb mouth and throat tissues. It provides quick, temporary relief of oral pain or discomfort (and can reduce gagging) by blocking nerve signals in the applied area. It should be used under medical guidance, with caution especially regarding dosage and pediatric use.
Clinical Uses & Health Information
Lidocaine Viscous 2% Oral Solution is widely recommended for:
- Oral mucositis pain relief (common in chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell therapy, cancer care)
- Numbing before dental procedures or after oral surgery (tooth extractions, gum procedures)
- Sore mouth or throat relief (canker sores, oral ulcers, herpes simplex sores, burning mouth syndrome)
- Denture or orthodontic irritation
- Sore throat, tonsillitis, pharyngitis or post-tonsillectomy care
- Prevention of gag reflex in dental or endoscopic procedures
- *Children and adults with difficult oral pain—always consult a healthcare provider for pediatric use
Dosage & Administration
- Adults: 15 mL (one tablespoon) up to 4 times a day; do not exceed maximum dose.
- Children: Use only as prescribed (typically lower dose based on body weight).
- Frequency: Every 3-4 hours, as necessary for pain, but not to exceed prescribed dosing limits.
Important: Overuse or swallowing excessive amounts may cause serious adverse effects.
Drug Interactions
- Other local anesthetics: Increased risk of toxicity—avoid combined use.
- Antiarrhythmics (e.g., mexiletine, tocainide): Increased risk of serious side effects.
- Beta-blockers, cimetidine, CYP3A4 inhibitors: May raise blood levels and increase toxicity.
- Heart, liver, or kidney medications: Use caution; discuss with your doctor or pharmacist.
Always discuss all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider before use.
