What is the maximum cumulative dose of Lidocaine that can be administered during the first hour for refractory VF/pVT?

The maximum cumulative dose of Lidocaine that can be administered during the first hour for refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) is 3mg per kilogram of body weight. This dosage is based on guidelines from emergency cardiovascular care and reflects the need to balance effective antiarrhythmic treatment while minimizing the risk of toxicity associated with Lidocaine.

When managing cases of refractory VF/pVT, Lidocaine acts as an antiarrhythmic agent that helps stabilize cardiac membrane potentials. The specific dosing recommendation of 3mg/kg ensures that sufficient medication is available to potentially restore a normal cardiac rhythm without unnecessary risk. Dosage above this recommended amount may lead to increased side effects, including central nervous system and cardiovascular toxicity, particularly in patients with varying metabolic rates or preexisting conditions.

This guideline is established to provide safe and effective treatment during critical resuscitation efforts, ensuring that the intervention remains within proven therapeutic limits. Other dose options may either fall below the recommended therapeutic threshold or exceed safety parameters set by clinical studies.