Chemical Properties of Local Anesthetic Agents

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What is considered the prime determinant of potency of a Local Anesthetic Agent (LAA)?

Molecular weight

Charge

Solubility

Hydrophobicity (correct)

Why do hydrophobic agents have better potency in theory?

They are larger in size

They penetrate cell membranes better (correct)

They are better at vasoconstriction

They have a higher charge

What is the significance of pKa value for a Local Anesthetic Agent?

It represents the solubility of the LAA

It measures the charge of the LAA

It indicates the molecular weight of the LAA

It shows the pH at which basic and ionic forms are equal (correct)

Why do protonated charged molecules have decreased efficacy as Local Anesthetic Agents?

Their charge affects cell membrane penetration negatively Signup and view all the answers

In what type of environment are protonated charged molecules more predominant?

Acidic environment Signup and view all the answers

What influences the availability of Local Anesthetic Agents at the action site apart from hydrophobicity?

Vasoconstriction Signup and view all the answers

What effect does higher dosage of local anesthetic agents have on anesthesia?

Improved anesthesia and reduced latency of action Signup and view all the answers

Why is vasoconstrictor like adrenaline combined with local anesthetic agents?

To improve the efficacy of the local anesthetic agents Signup and view all the answers

Which type of nerve fibers are more susceptible to local anesthetic agents?

Non-myelinated fibers Signup and view all the answers

What principle is utilized in tumescent anesthesia regarding the dosage of local anesthetic agents?

Higher dosages can be used without significant risk of systemic toxicity Signup and view all the answers

How does lidocaine affect blood vessels at lower concentrations?

Causes vasoconstriction Signup and view all the answers

Why is the combination of lidocaine, tetracaine, and phenylephrine preferred over benzocaine 20%?

It is more effective in producing cutaneous anesthesia Signup and view all the answers

Chemical Properties of Local Anesthetic Agents

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