Local Anesthetic Safety Calculator
Calculate maximum allowable volume for various local anesthetics based on weight, concentration, and epinephrine use.
Maximum Dose
Max mg/kg
4.50 mg/kg
Lidocaine • Without epinephrine.
Max volume
31.5 mL
Max total 315 mg at 10 mg/mL.
How to Use This Calculator
Select anesthetic and concentration
Choose the percentage solution being used (e.g., 1%, 2%). The calculator converts to mg/mL.
Specify epinephrine use
Safe doses increase with epinephrine due to reduced systemic absorption.
Compare with planned volume
Ensure total injected volume stays below the maximum. Consider cumulative doses when combining agents.
Formula
Max total (mg) = weight (kg) × max mg/kg.
Derived from FDA labeling, dental anesthesia guidelines, and ASRA recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to convert percent to mg/mL?
1% solution = 10 mg/mL. Multiply % by 10 to get mg/mL.
What if I mix local anesthetics?
Sum the fractions of each maximum dose. For example, 50% of max lidocaine + 50% of max bupivacaine equals full combined dose.
How to adjust for pediatric patients?
Use pediatric-specific guidelines. Max doses per kg may differ; consult pediatric anesthesia references.
What are signs of local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST)?
Perioral numbness, tinnitus, metallic taste, seizures, arrhythmias. Initiate lipid resuscitation immediately.
Can I exceed max dose for tumescent anesthesia?
Special tumescent protocols allow higher doses under strict monitoring. Use dedicated calculators.