Current understanding of lidocaine as an antiarrhythmic agent: a review.

Lidocaine generally is the agent of first choice against acute ventricular arrhythmias arising from many causes. It is clinically effective and well tolerated, having a rapid onset of action and a favorable electrophysiological profile. Unlike other antiarrhythmic agents, lidocaine does not interact with the autonomic nervous system. A review of the literature highlights current knowledge about this antiarrhythmic drug.