Novocaine is generally well-tolerated and comes few adverse side effects. The most common adverse reactions occur at the injection site.
The most commonly reported adverse reactions to local anesthesia include:
- Cold sweats (diaphoresis)
- Dizziness
- Paleness or “loss of color” (pallor)
- Heart palpitations
Anxiety, flushing, itching, shortness of breath, and hives (urticaria) have been observed after administration of novocaine.
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following severe adverse side effects after a novocaine injection:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Trembling, shaking
- Asthma symptoms
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis symptoms (serious, life-threatening allergic reaction)
- Seizures (convulsions)
Because epinephrine (adrenaline) is often mixed with novocaine to extend its duration of action, many of the side effects associated with procaine are actually caused by the epinephrine. For example, some people experience an adrenaline rush after being given novocaine. This is most likely caused by the epinephrine additive and is not an allergic reaction.
Most adverse reactions to local anesthesia occur within the first two hours after the injection. If you experience any of these symptoms for longer than four to six hours, contact a healthcare provider. In emergencies, call 911.