Lox 2% Injection: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Persistent numbness or weakness in the injected limb
- Signs of infection at the injection site (increasing pain, redness, swelling, fever)
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is unicain 2% injection used for?
This medicine is a 2% lidocaine injection used by healthcare professionals to numb a specific area before minor surgery, dental work, or other procedures. It works quickly to block pain signals and typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes.
- Generic Name: Lidocaine (2%)
- Manufacturer: Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 unicain 2% injection के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एक स्थानीय एनेस्थेटिक इंजेक्शन है जिसमें लिडोकेन 2% होता है। इसका उपयोग डॉक्टर द्वारा छोटी सर्जरी, दांतों के इलाज, टांके लगाने या अन्य प्रक्रियाओं से पहले शरीर के किसी हिस्से को सुन्न करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह दर्द के संकेतों को रोककर काम करती है, जिससे आपको प्रक्रिया के दौरान दर्द महसूस नहीं होता। यह दवा केवल अस्पताल या क्लिनिक में प्रशिक्षित स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जाती है। इसे घर पर स्वयं न लगाएं।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में इंजेक्शन वाली जगह पर दर्द, लालिमा या सूजन शामिल हैं, जो आमतौर पर कुछ घंटों में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कुछ लोगों को चक्कर आना, नींद आना, मुंह में धातु जैसा स्वाद, मतली या उल्टी हो सकती है। दुर्लभ मामलों में दौरे, धीमी हृदय गति, निम्न रक्तचाप या गंभीर एलर्जी हो सकती है। यदि सांस लेने में कठिनाई, सीने में दर्द, या चेहरे पर सूजन हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल योग्य डॉक्टर या स्वास्थ्यकर्मी द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। इंजेक्शन लगने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी स्वास्थ्य समस्याओं, दवाओं और एलर्जी के बारे में बताएं। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं, या गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं तो डॉक्टर को सूचित करें। इंजेक्शन के बाद चक्कर या नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। इंजेक्शन वाली जगह को साफ और सूखा रखें। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
💊 unicain 2% injection Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Local anaesthesia for minor surgical procedures","description":"Provides temporary numbness of a specific area for suturing, incision and drainage, or removal of small skin lesions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Dental procedures","description":"Used for infiltration or nerve block anaesthesia during tooth extraction, fillings, and other dental work.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Diagnostic and therapeutic injections","description":"Reduces pain during procedures such as joint aspirations, lumbar puncture, or nerve blocks.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Pain relief for intramuscular injections","description":"Sometimes mixed with certain injectable medicines to reduce the burning or pain at the injection site.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Management of tinnitus","description":"Intravenous lidocaine has been studied for temporary relief of tinnitus, but this is not a standard approved use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Adjunct for postoperative pain","description":"Continuous intravenous infusion may be used in some settings to reduce opioid requirements after surgery.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Primary treatment for: Local anaesthesia for surgical and dental procedures
Also treats: Pain management during diagnostic procedures, Minor wound repair, Dental pain relief
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Lidocaine (2%) |
| Brand Name | unicain 2% injection |
| Manufacturer | Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | PAIN ANALGESICS |
| Action Class | Local anaesthetic (Amides) |
| Route of Administration | Parenteral (injection) |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Do not freeze. Keep it in its original packaging, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of this medicine is typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific product. Always check the expiry date on the packaging before use. Do not use if the solution is discoloured or contains particles. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels on the inner side of nerve cell membranes. When these channels are blocked, sodium ions cannot enter the nerve cell, which prevents the nerve from generating and transmitting electrical impulses. Because pain signals rely on these impulses, the treated area becomes numb and pain sensation is temporarily lost. At higher concentrations, this medicine can also affect other excitable tissues such as the heart and brain, which is why careful dosing and monitoring are essential.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take unicain 2% injection
Strength: This medicine is available as a 2% injection, which means it contains 20 mg of lidocaine hydrochloride per millilitre of solution. It is supplied in vials or ampoules for single use.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine varies widely depending on the procedure, the area to be anaesthetised, and the patient's age, weight, and medical condition. For local infiltration, a common concentration is 0.5% to 2%, and the maximum recommended dose for a healthy adult is generally up to 4.5 mg per kg of body weight, but never exceeding 300 mg. For example, a 70 kg adult might receive up to 300 mg, which corresponds to 15 mL of a 2% solution. However, the exact dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and concurrent medications. Never self-administer this medicine. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing of this medicine is not established from available information. It should only be used in children under the supervision of a pediatrician or anesthesiologist, who will determine the appropriate dose based on the child's weight and the procedure. Do not attempt to calculate or administer this medicine to a child without medical supervision. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients (above 65 years) may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially central nervous system and cardiovascular effects. The dose should be reduced, and the patient should be monitored closely. A qualified clinician will determine the appropriate dose based on the patient's overall health, liver and kidney function, and concurrent medications. |
| Renal Impairment | Renal impairment does not usually require dose adjustment for a single injection of this medicine, as it is primarily metabolised in the liver. However, in severe renal disease, metabolites may accumulate, and caution is advised. The clinician will decide if any dose adjustment is needed based on the patient's renal function. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Patients with hepatic impairment, especially severe liver disease, may require a reduced dose of this medicine because its metabolism is slowed. The dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician, and monitoring for signs of toxicity is recommended. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended dose of this medicine for a healthy adult is generally up to 4.5 mg per kg of body weight, but never exceeding 300 mg in a single session. For a 70 kg adult, this equates to approximately 300 mg, which is 15 mL of a 2% solution. However, the exact maximum dose must be determined by a qualified clinician based on the patient's condition and the procedure. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of unicain 2% injection
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cimetidine | Major | |
| Beta-blockers | Major | |
| Antiarrhythmics | Major | |
| Other local anaesthetics | Major | |
| CYP3A4 inhibitors | Moderate | |
| Opioids | Moderate | |
| Benzodiazepines | Moderate | |
| Alcohol | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Other local anaesthetics (e.g., bupivacaine, prilocaine)
- Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol, procainamide)
- Cimetidine
- Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, metoprolol)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir)
- CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin)
- Opioid analgesics (e.g., morphine, fentanyl)
- Sedatives and hypnotics (e.g., benzodiazepines)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the sedative and central nervous system depressant effects of this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after receiving this injection, or longer if you feel drowsy or dizzy. Combining alcohol with this medicine can also increase the risk of low blood pressure and fainting.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity or allergy to lidocaine or other amide-type local anaesthetics","Severe heart block (second- or third-degree) without a pacemaker","Severe liver disease or severe hepatic impairment","Pseudocholinesterase deficiency (rare genetic condition)","Inflammation or infection at the intended injection site","Spinal or epidural anaesthesia in patients with severe hypovolemia, increased intracranial pressure, or sepsis"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine must only be administered by a trained healthcare professional.","Use with caution in patients with heart disease, especially conduction disorders.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.","Avoid rapid injection to prevent high blood levels and toxicity.","Do not use in or near the eye or for retrobulbar block due to risk of severe reactions.","Patients with myasthenia gravis may experience increased muscle weakness.","Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants after receiving this medicine.","Do not drive or operate machinery until the numbness wears off and you feel fully alert."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Lidocaine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers when used as a single injection for local anaesthesia. However, if you are breastfeeding, inform your doctor before receiving this medicine. Avoid breastfeeding for a few hours after the injection if you are concerned, but this is usually not necessary.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose with this medicine can cause severe central nervous system and cardiovascular toxicity, including seizures, coma, respiratory depression, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and cardiac arrest. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical help immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include oxygen, intravenous fluids, medications to control seizures, and advanced cardiac life support. There is no specific antidote; management focuses on maintaining vital functions and eliminating the drug from the body.
⏰ Missed Dose
This medicine is given as a single injection by a healthcare professional, so missed dose instructions are not applicable. If you have an appointment for a procedure and miss it, contact your doctor to reschedule. Do not attempt to administer this medicine yourself.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be administered by a qualified healthcare professional in a setting equipped to manage emergencies. Before receiving this injection, inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially heart, liver, or kidney problems, and any history of allergies. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery immediately after the procedure if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or numb. Avoid rubbing or scratching the injection site, and keep it clean and dry. Do not use this medicine at home or without medical supervision. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe dizziness, or swelling of the face and throat, seek emergency medical help immediately. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding activity restrictions and wound care after the procedure.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, particularly central nervous system and cardiovascular effects. Lower doses may be required, and close monitoring is advised. Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor before receiving this medicine. It is generally considered safe, but your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks. There is no evidence that it affects fertility.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, this medicine may be used for local anaesthesia. Follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care and activity restrictions. Report any unusual pain, swelling, or numbness to your doctor.
🦷 Dental Procedures
This medicine is commonly used in dental procedures to numb the area before fillings, extractions, or root canals. Inform your dentist about any heart conditions, allergies, or medications you take. Avoid eating or drinking hot beverages until the numbness wears off to prevent burns or bites.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours after receiving this medicine, especially if you feel dizzy or drowsy. If the injection was in a limb, avoid using that limb for vigorous activity until sensation fully returns.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or numbness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to take rest for the remainder of the day after receiving this injection. You may need someone to drive you home. Most people can resume normal activities the next day.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
This medicine is given as a single injection by a healthcare professional, so you do not need to stop it yourself. If you experience any severe side effects, inform your doctor immediately. Do not receive additional doses without medical advice.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
This medicine is typically used as a single injection for short procedures, so long-term effects are not a concern. Repeated or prolonged use is uncommon. If used repeatedly, there is a risk of cumulative toxicity, and monitoring may be needed. There is no evidence of long-term harm from occasional use as prescribed.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Bupivacaine, prilocaine, or mepivacaine may be used depending on the procedure and duration needed.
Evidence: Well-establishedFor more extensive procedures, general anaesthesia may be used instead of local anaesthesia.
Evidence: Well-establishedTechniques such as relaxation, distraction, or hypnosis may complement or reduce the need for anaesthesia in some cases.
Evidence: Limited💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccines before or after this injection as advised by your doctor.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Check expiry date before use
❌ DON'T
Do not use if solution is discoloured or contains particles
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
If you are prescribed this medicine for travel, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Keep a copy of your prescription with you. Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If you are travelling by air, carry it in your hand luggage with a doctor's note. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding injectable medicines. If you need to use it during travel, ensure you have access to a healthcare professional.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working within 1 to 5 minutes after injection, providing numbness for the procedure.
A: The numbness typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes without a vasoconstrictor, and up to 1 to 2 hours if a vasoconstrictor is added.
A: You should avoid driving or operating machinery until the numbness wears off and you feel fully alert, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
A: This medicine is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used appropriately, but you should inform your doctor if you are pregnant.
A: Common side effects include injection site pain, dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for unicain 2% injection
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
resocaine 2% injectionInd Swift Laboratories Ltd ₹4.86 73.4% CHEAPER
-
lox 2% jellyNeon Laboratories Ltd ₹10.78 41% CHEAPER
-
lignocad gelZydus Cadila ₹12.08 33.9% CHEAPER
-
biocaine 2% injectionBiochem Pharmaceutical Industries ₹13.75 24.8% CHEAPER
-
lignopar 2% injectionBiomedica International ₹13.80 24.5% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be used at home for pain relief.
Fact: This medicine is an injectable local anaesthetic and must only be administered by a trained healthcare professional in a medical setting. - Myth: This medicine is addictive.
Fact: This medicine is not addictive. It is a local anaesthetic and does not cause dependence. - Myth: You can drive immediately after receiving this medicine.
Fact: You should avoid driving or operating machinery until the numbness wears off and you feel fully alert, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness. - Myth: This medicine is safe to use if you have a heart condition.
Fact: This medicine should be used with caution in people with heart conditions, especially those with conduction disorders. Always inform your doctor about your heart health.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Lidocaine 2% injection
Brand Alternatives
- Lox 2% Injection
- Xylocaine 2% Injection
- Lidocaine 2% Injection