What is the primary use of Lidocaine in medical procedures?

Lidocaine is primarily recognized for its role as a local anesthetic, which means its key function is to blunt pain. This is achieved through its ability to block sodium channels in nerve cells, thereby inhibiting the transmission of pain signals to the brain. It is widely used in various medical procedures, including minor surgeries, dental work, and other situations where localized pain control is necessary.

The reference to decreasing intracranial pressure is not applicable to Lidocaine's primary use. Intracranial pressure is typically managed through other means, such as surgical interventions or medications specifically designed to reduce swelling or fluid accumulation in the brain. While certain medications may affect intracranial pressure, Lidocaine does not have this function as its main therapeutic action.

In contrast, preventing bradycardia in infants and inducing muscle paralysis are also not functions associated with Lidocaine. Bradycardia can be treated with other agents, while muscle paralysis is managed with neuromuscular blockers, not local anesthetics like Lidocaine. Therefore, recognizing Lidocaine’s primary application as a local anesthetic aimed at pain management clarifies its medical utility.