Anacaine HC

Anacaine HC Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Anacaine HC is a brand name. Its generic name is Hydrocortisone + Lidocaine.

Introduction

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine are two drugs from different classes that are approved by the FDA for the relief of certain conditions. Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid, or a steroid, while lidocaine is a local anesthetic. While these two drugs can be used together, they are not typically used for the same condition.

Uses

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine are approved by the FDA to treat different conditions. Hydrocortisone is approved to treat inflammation caused by a variety of medical conditions, including asthma and allergies. Lidocaine is approved to act as a local anesthetic, mainly to numb areas of the body topically before medical procedures.

Mechanism of Action

Hydrocortisone works by reducing inflammation in the body. It does this by blocking the inflammatory process, which is the body’s natural immune response to certain triggers. Lidocaine, on the other hand, works as a direct analgesic, and works by blocking the transmission of nerve signals, which reduces pain in an affected area or procedure.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The effect of hydrocortisone and lidocaine vary depending on the condition they are treating and the method of administration. For hydrocortisone, the effects can be felt within 1-2 hours of taking the medication orally. For lidocaine, the effects are typically felt within minutes of administration.

Absorption

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine are absorbed differently depending on the route of administration. Hydrocortisone is well absorbed when taken orally but is not well absorbed when applied topically. Lidocaine, on the other hand, is rapidly absorbed through topical application and is slowly absorbed when taken orally.

Route of Elimination

Both hydrocortisone and lidocaine are metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine. Hydrocortisone is mainly eliminated through the bile, while lidocaine is mainly eliminated through the kidneys.

Dosage

For hydrocortisone, the typical adult dose is 2.5–5 mg orally every 6–8 hours, or as directed by a physician. The maximum dose should not exceed 40 mg per day. For lidocaine, the typical adult dose is 1-3% for topical application, or 0.5 mg/kg every 1-2 hours intravenously, as directed by a physician. It is important to follow the prescribing physician's instructions on dosage, as the dose can vary depending on the condition being treated and the patient's response to the medication.

Administration

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine can be administered orally, topically, intramuscularly, and intravenously, depending on the condition and the physician’s directions. Oral administration should be taken with food or water to prevent stomach irritation. Topical applications should never be applied to broken skin, and should be used sparingly. Intramuscular and intravenous administrations should only be administered under medical supervision and should be avoided in infants and children.

Side Effects

The side effects of hydrocortisone and lidocaine vary depending on the route of administration, duration of use, and patient's medical history. Common side effects of hydrocortisone use include abdominal pain, dizziness, weight gain, depression, and acne. Common side effects of lidocaine use include lightheadedness, dizziness, numbness, and rash.

Toxicity

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine are considered to be relatively safe, however, they both have the potential to be toxic if used in excess or if combined with other medications or supplements. Overdose of hydrocortisone can cause electrolyte imbalances, depression, and kidney damage. Overdose of lidocaine can cause tremors, seizures, and general weakness. In both cases, it is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately in the event of an overdose.

Precaution

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes. It is also important to consult a healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all other medications being taken to avoid potential drug interactions.

Interaction

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine may interact with other medications and supplements, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), lithium, and certain diuretics. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if any other medications or supplements are being taken while using either of these medications. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications.

Disease Interaction

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine may interact with other medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, diabetes, and heart disease. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if any other medical conditions are present before taking either of these medications. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications.

Drug Interaction

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine may interact with other medications and supplements, including antifungals, thyroid medications, and HIV medications. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if any other medications or supplements are being taken while using either of these medications. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications.

Food Interactions

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine should be taken with food or water to prevent stomach irritation. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if any other foods or beverages are being consumed while taking either of these medications. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications.

Pregnancy Use

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine are both classified as Pregnancy Category C drugs, which means that they should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits of the medication outweigh the potential risks. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if the patient is pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking either of these medications. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications.

Lactation Use

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine are both classified as Nursing Mother Risk Category B drugs, which means that they can be used by nursing mothers only if the benefit to the patient outweighs the risk to the infant. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if the patient is breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed while taking either of these medications. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications.

Acute Overdose

In case of an acute overdose, a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include difficulty breathing, confusion, sweating, dizziness, or numbness. Treatment for an overdose will depend on the severity of the overdose and the amount of medication taken.

Contraindication

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine should not be used in patients who are sensitive to either medication, or in patients who have a history of certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, hypertension, or liver disease. It is important to inform a healthcare provider if any other medical conditions are present before taking either of these medications.

Use Direction

When taking hydrocortisone or lidocaine, it is important to follow the prescribing physician’s instructions on dosage, administration, and frequency. It is also important to take the medication as directed and to never take more than the prescribed amount. Patients should contact a healthcare provider if any new or worsening symptoms develop while taking either of these medications and they should not stop taking the medication without consulting a physician.

Storage Condition

Hydrocortisone and lidocaine should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. It is important to keep the medications away from light and heat and to ensure that the medications are not exposed to moisture, which can cause the medications to become ineffective. Patients should also ensure that they store the medications

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