What is the bolus dose of Lidocaine for IV/IO administration?

The recommended bolus dose of Lidocaine for intravenous (IV) or intraosseous (IO) administration in cases of cardiac arrhythmias is typically in the range of 1 to 1.5 mg/kg. This dosage is established based on clinical guidelines and consensus in the medical community. The purpose of using this specific dose is to achieve effective plasma levels of the medication that can provide the desired therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of toxicity.

This dosage allows for rapid onset of action, which is critical in emergency situations where the management of arrhythmias is urgent. Lidocaine, an antiarrhythmic drug, is especially useful in treating ventricular arrhythmias and can stabilize cardiac electrical activity.

Using a lower or higher bolus dose could either lead to insufficient therapeutic effect or increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. The choice of 1 to 1.5 mg/kg fits well within the limits established by clinical practice, ensuring safety and efficacy for patients experiencing life-threatening arrhythmias.