Does Lidocaine expire? 

In this concise article, we will address the question of Lidocaine’s expiration, along with additional aspects such as the potential risks associated with using expired Lidocaine, recommended actions if one has used such medication past its expiry date, potential adverse effects of Lidocaine usage, characteristics to identify spoiled Lidocaine, and how this medication should be stored.

Similar to other medications, Lidocaine has an expiration date, and it is not advisable to use it beyond that date.

The exact health risks linked to the consumption of expired Lidocaine cannot be definitively determined because there are no studies in the literature on this subject (1,2,3). However, it is a fact that storage conditions can affect the stability of lidocaine and, consequently, its effectiveness without guaranteeing its safety (4).

If you unintentionally consume expired Lidocaine, remain observant for symptoms and promptly seek medical assistance if you experience any adverse effects (5,6).

To store Lidocaine, ensure it is kept in its original container within a well-ventilated area.

Spoiled medication might display visual alterations and emit a strong odor. If you observe any noticeable changes in the characteristics of Lidocaine, refrain from taking the medication (7,8).

Does Lidocaine expire? 

Yes, regardless of the pharmaceutical form (injectable, topical, etc.), Lidocaine does expire.

While some medications may retain their effectiveness beyond their expiration date (1), it is not recommended to use expired drugs.

The stability of medications depends on proper storage conditions. Inadequate storage can accelerate the degradation of drugs. Additionally, the pharmaceutical form of medications affects its stability. 

However, it is certain that all expired drugs are likely to lose their effectiveness over time, and their safety cannot be guaranteed. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against the consumption of any expired medication (2).

What are the dangers associated with using expired Lidocaine? 

Although expired Lidocaine may not pose a health risk if expired recently, it should not be used.

There is no research data available regarding the safety and efficacy of expired Lidocaine and no one can say for sure what potential health risks are associated with their use, not even the manufacturers (1,2,3).

A study found in the literature identified that lidocaine, when stored under inadequate temperature and humidity conditions, shows a significant reduction in its stability and, consequently, in its effectiveness as well, with no guarantee of safety for patients (4). 

This is why it’s best to not rely on improperly stored or expired Lidocaine and always opt for meds that are under the manufacturer’s guarantee (1).

What to do if you have accidentally used expired Lidocaine? 

If you have accidentally used/consumed expired Lidocaine, please remain vigilant for symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual issues. 

As a general rule, it is not advisable to consume expired medications due to the potential for unknown side effects they may cause (1,2,3). 

It is recommended to replace the expired Lidocaine with a new one.

What adverse effects may Lidocaine cause?

While the occurrence of side effects with topical lidocaine is generally rare, it is important to exercise caution when using large volumes and concentrations. This is because the likelihood of experiencing side effects is directly proportional to the total dose of the local anesthetic agent administered (5).

If you experience any of the following systemic reactions after using lidocaine (regardless of the pharmaceutical form), seek medical attention (6):

• Nervous System Disorders: respiratory depression and arrest; unconsciousness; convulsions; tremors; twitching; vomiting; blurred or double vision; drowsiness; dizziness; light-headedness; tinnitus; sensation of heat, cold or numbness; euphoria; apprehension; agitation; confused state; paresthesia; dysarthria. 
• Cardiovascular System: cardiovascular arrest; bradycardia which may lead to cardiac arrest; hypotension, Ventricular fibrillation, Ventricular tachycardia, Ventricular arrhythmia, Asystole. 
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Hypoesthesia oral, Nausea, Hematologic Effects: methemoglobinemia. 
• Psychiatric Disorders: Disorientation 

Allergic reactions, including anaphylactic reactions, may occur but are infrequent.

How to identify spoiled Lidocaine?

Some characteristics can indicate that a medication is spoiled, such as (7,8):

• Packaging integrity: If a package is open or tampered with, with the medication exposed to the environment, there is a high chance of medication deterioration
• Visible signs of deterioration: Discoloration, damage caused by moisture, damage caused by fungi or bacteria, or any other apparent modification of the medication.
• Strong and unusual odor.

How should Lidocaine be properly stored?

Keep your medicine in its original packaging until it is time to take it and store it in a cool, dry place where the temperature remains 20-25°C. 

Avoid storing your medicine, as well as any other medications, in the bathroom or near a sink. 

Lastly, remember to keep this medicine out of reach of children (5,6).

Conclusion:

In this concise article, we have addressed the question of Lidocaine’s expiration, along with additional aspects such as the potential risks associated with using expired Lidocaine, recommended actions if one has used such medication past its expiry date, potential adverse effects of Lidocaine usage, characteristics to identify spoiled Lidocaine, and how this medication should be stored.

References