Lidocaine, a common injectable dental anesthetic, is available as a 1% lidocaine-HCl solution, as shown on the following drug label. What is the purpose of HCl in the injection solution?
A) It makes lidocaine easier to store.
B) It makes lidocaine more reactive.
C) It makes lidocaine more soluble.
D) It is the active ingredient of the medicine.
E) It is a preservative.

Question

Lidocaine, a common injectable dental anesthetic, is available as a 1% lidocaine-HCl solution, as shown on the following drug label. What is the purpose of HCl in the injection solution? 
A) It makes lidocaine easier to store. 
B) It makes lidocaine more reactive. 
C) It makes lidocaine more soluble. 
D) It is the active ingredient of the medicine. 
E) It is a preservative.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

HCl is added to lidocaine to make it more soluble in water, allowing for easier injection and absorption into the body.

Lidocaine, a Common Injectable Dental Anesthetic, Is Available as a 1