What is the initial bolus dose of Lidocaine for refractory V-FIB/V-TACH?

The initial bolus dose of Lidocaine for treating refractory Ventricular Fibrillation (V-FIB) and Ventricular Tachycardia (V-TACH) is 1-1.5 mg/kg administered via intravenous (IV) or intraosseous (IO) route. This dosage aligns with established advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) protocols, which recommend this specific range to effectively provide therapeutic levels of Lidocaine quickly to stabilize the heart rhythm.

Administering 1-1.5 mg/kg ensures adequate concentrations in the bloodstream to help suppress abnormal heart rhythms while minimizing potential side effects associated with higher doses. The choice of Lidocaine is based on its effectiveness as an antiarrhythmic agent, particularly for managing fast rhythms that can lead to cardiac arrest. This bolus can be followed by additional doses or an infusion depending on the patient’s response and prevailing guidelines.

Understanding the pharmacological action and appropriate dosing ranges is crucial in emergency scenarios to enhance patient outcomes.