Local Anesthetics Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards covers the definitions, mechanisms, classifications, pharmacokinetics, adverse effects, and techniques related to local anesthetics as outlined in the lecture notes.

Local Anesthetics

Drugs that cause reversible loss of sensory perception, particularly pain, in a localized area of the body.

Mechanism of Action

Local anesthetics block generation and conduction of nerve impulses at a localized site without causing structural damage to neurons.

Ester-linked Anesthetics

These are short-acting local anesthetics metabolized in plasma and tissue fluids.

Amide-linked Anesthetics

These are longer-acting local anesthetics metabolized by liver enzymes.

Bupivacaine

An amide local anesthetic known for its long duration of action and used in various types of anesthesia.

Lidocaine

A widely used amide local anesthetic effective in multiple administration routes, known for its rapid onset and longer duration compared to procaine.

Surface Anesthetic

Local anesthetics applied topically to produce anesthesia at a specific area, used in procedures like corneal or nasopharyngeal anesthesia.

Adverse Effects of Local Anesthetics

Potential negative reactions including arrhythmias, hypotension, methemoglobinemia, hypersensitivity, and neurotoxicity.

Spinal Anesthesia

A method of anesthesia involving injection into the subarachnoid space, commonly used for operations on the lower body.

Field Block

An injection of local anesthetic subcutaneously to anesthetize a specific area distal to the injection site.

Pharmacokinetics of Local Anesthetics

The study of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of local anesthetics in the body.

Difference between Local and General Anesthesia

Local anesthesia affects a specific area of the body while general anesthesia affects the entire body, leading to loss of consciousness.