Lidocaine Spray for Brain Freeze
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The primary objective of this study is to determine if a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block, performed through intranasal atomization of 4% lidocaine, is able to prevent cold induced cephalgia ("Brain Freeze"). Secondary objectives will be to determine the degree of decreased pain/duration of brain freeze after sphenopalatine ganglion block
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug Lidocaine Topical 4% Topical Solution for brain freeze?
Is lidocaine spray safe for humans?
Lidocaine, when used topically, is generally considered safe but can cause serious side effects if absorbed in high amounts, such as lightheadedness, tingling, seizures, and heart or breathing problems. There have been reports of fatalities and serious side effects, especially in children, so it's important to use it carefully and under medical supervision.23678
How does the drug Lidocaine Topical 4% Spray differ from other treatments for brain freeze?
Lidocaine Topical 4% Spray is unique because it is a local anesthetic applied directly to the skin, which may help numb the area and prevent the sensation of brain freeze. Unlike other treatments that might not specifically target the sensation of brain freeze, this spray offers a direct and potentially immediate way to address the discomfort.2591011
Research Team
Brian P Murray, DO
Principal Investigator
Wright State University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for Wright State University Emergency Medicine residents and medical students over 18 who've had at least one brain freeze. It's not specified who can't join, but typically those with allergies or conditions affected by the treatments would be excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-medicated Phase
Participants rapidly drink up to ½ of a 32 fluid oz ice-cold slushy to induce a brain freeze. The time to onset, intensity, location, and duration of the headache are recorded.
Treatment Phase
Participants receive either 1 mL of 4% lidocaine or 0.9% normal saline administered by intranasal atomization. They then rapidly drink up to ½ of a 32 fluid oz ice-cold slushy to induce a brain freeze. The time to onset, intensity, location, and duration of the headache are recorded.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any side effects and the degree of decreased pain/duration of brain freeze after the sphenopalatine ganglion block.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Lidocaine Topical 4% Topical Solution
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Wright State University
Lead Sponsor