Pharmacology · single question
Pregnant patient asks if lidocaine is safe to use during dental treatment.
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Correct answer: A. No problems — lidocaine is safe during pregnancy (FDA Category B)
- A. Correct. Lidocaine is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B and is considered safe for use during dental treatment in pregnant patients when used appropriately.
- B. This is incorrect; lidocaine is not contraindicated throughout pregnancy.
- C. Lidocaine is not restricted to only the third trimester; it can generally be used safely throughout pregnancy when clinically indicated, with usual precautions for elective treatment timing (often the second trimester is preferred for elective procedures).
- D. Standard lidocaine with epinephrine, used at typical dental doses, is considered safe in pregnancy; avoiding vasoconstrictor is not a specific required modification per standard guidance.
Note: All distractor options in the original question had 'yes, but...' qualifiers. The direct, correct answer is that lidocaine is safe in pregnancy.