What is a common side effect of using Lidocaine for arrhythmias?

Lidocaine is commonly used as an antiarrhythmic medication, particularly for ventricular arrhythmias. One of the notable side effects associated with its use is drowsiness. This occurs because Lidocaine can affect the central nervous system, leading to increased sedation and lethargy in some patients. The mechanism behind this involves Lidocaine's action on neuronal sodium channels, which can lead to altered neuronal firing and, consequently, CNS-related effects.

Understanding this side effect is crucial for healthcare providers as it can impact patient safety, especially in those requiring alertness for activities such as driving or operating machinery. Additionally, monitoring drowsiness is essential to determine if the dosage needs adjustment or if the medication should be discontinued.