The protective effect of lidocaine on septic rats via the inhibition of high mobility group box 1 expression and NF-κB activation.

Lidocaine, a common local anesthetic drug, has anti-inflammatory effects. It has demonstrated a protective effect in mice from septic peritonitis. However, it is unknown whether lidocaine has effects on high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a key mediator of inflammation.