Lidocaine - shelf life; after opening?
Question posted by fgorton on 3 March 2010
Last updated on 8 March 2012
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Answers
What lidocaine product are you referring to... ointment, gel, injection (ampoule or vial) ?
Have you looked on the bottle / tube ... expiry dates after opening are often on the label.
I wonder what your take is on duration of storage of medications (vials and ampoules) after they are opened. I have heard from some collegues, that for antibiotic ampoules it should be used not longer than 24hours once opened, vials should be discarded after once use irrespective of dose required. (This has become the practise in the hospital i work, as an infection control measure). Nothing was said of medications like, the 2% lidocaine injection with antimicrobial additive (not mentioned) and some others. Could you give me an evidence based response to shelf life of medications in ampoules and vials.
I have the same question about the life of lidocaine after opening vial or ampule. 1% Lidocaine injectible solution preservative free 30ml vial. My other question is, can you use it on multiple patients? Yes we have read all information on the insert that comes with it.
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Further information
- Lidocaine uses and safety info
- Lidocaine prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lidocaine (detailed)
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