What is the different between Lidocaine and lidocaine hcl？

When we choose lidocaine powder, do you often have questions about whether to choose lidocaine powder or lidocaine HCl powder?

Let’s understand that both lidocaine and lidocaine HCl are white powders in appearance, and there is not much difference in their effects.
So what impact does the presence of hydrochloric acid in the chemical structure have on the product?

The biggest impact still lies in the final usage method. The main difference between lidocaine and lidocaine hydrochloride in terms of solution and efficacy is related to their form and solubility, which will affect their application and efficacy

Lidocaine usually exists in powder form and is less soluble in water compared to lidocaine hydrochloride. Therefore, it is often used in local preparations, such as lidocaine cream, lidocaine gel, lidocaine ointment and local lidocaine anesthesia patch. These products usually provide local numbness and reduce pain sensation by blocking the nerve signal in the application area.

Simply put, lidocaine hydrochloride is the hydrochloride form of lidocaine, which is highly soluble in water and suitable for injection solutions and intravenous injections. Usually used in the form of injections for local anesthesia in minor surgeries and dental procedures, and as antiarrhythmic drugs to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats. Provide fast and effective local anesthesia during injection, and intravenous injection can stabilize heart rhythm when used for arrhythmia.

So the addition of hydrochloric acid leads to a significant difference in product solubility between the two, which affects the final form, usage, and effectiveness of the product.
When purchasing, people mainly decide which type of lidocaine to buy based on their final product needs.

Of course, there is not much difference between the two types of lidocaine powders in terms of product form, appearance, and price.

What else should be noted when purchasing lidocaine powder besides the hydrochloric acid form? That’s the way the product is stored. Usually, if lidocaine is stored improperly and exposed to air for a long time, it will undergo oxidation reactions, causing the powder to turn yellow in color and become viscous. This is basically considered to have deteriorated and cannot be continued to be used. So when we receive the product, we must package it in a timely manner and seal it for storage to avoid product deterioration. Assuming the correct storage method, the product warranty period is generally 24 months.