Ertapenem Reconstitution with Lidocaine

Safety Considerations When Using Lidocaine

• When using lidocaine for reconstitution, be aware of the maximum safe dose limits for lidocaine (7 mg/kg with epinephrine, 4.5 mg/kg without epinephrine in adults) 1
• Avoid using ertapenem with lidocaine in patients who have recently received other local anesthetic interventions, as combining local anesthetics increases risk of toxicity 2, 3
• Intravenous lidocaine should not be started within 4 hours of any nerve or fascial plane block, or infiltration of local anesthetic 2
• Be vigilant for signs of local anesthetic systemic toxicity, which may include circumoral numbness, facial tingling, slurred speech, metallic taste, auditory changes, and hallucinations 1