Can a simple fat infusion wake up numb skin faster?

NCT ID NCT03968822

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether an intravenous fat emulsion called Intralipid 20% can reverse the numbing effect of common local anesthetics like lidocaine and bupivacaine. Eighteen healthy volunteers receive small injections of these anesthetics in their thigh, followed by either Intralipid or a saline placebo. Researchers measure how quickly normal sensation returns to see if Intralipid speeds up recovery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Intralipid 20% (fat emulsion given intravenously)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a way to speed up recovery from local anesthesia after procedures.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early proof-of-concept study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Results may not apply to real-world medical situations.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Hospital of Special Surgery

    New York, New York, 10021, United States