15 Questions
What is the primary mechanism of action of local anesthetic agents?
Inhibiting the influx of sodium ions into the nerve cell
Which of the following local anesthetics is derived from aniline?
Lidocaine
What is the term for the ability of an anesthetic to produce anesthesia at a given concentration?
Potency
What is the term for the rate and extent of absorption of an anesthetic from the site of administration?
Absorption
What is a rare but potential complication of ester-type local anesthetics?
Allergic reactions
What is the term for the length of time an anesthetic remains effective?
Duration
What is a characteristic of amine-type local anesthetic agents?
They have a tertiary amine group
What is the effect of local anesthetics on the resting membrane potential of nerve cells?
They decrease the resting membrane potential
What is a measure of an anesthetic's ability to block nerve conduction?
Potency
What is the term for the movement of the anesthetic to the site of action?
Distribution
What is a characteristic of ester-type local anesthetic agents?
They are characterized by an ester linkage
What is a common adverse effect of local anesthetic agents on the central nervous system?
Dizziness
What is the mechanism by which local anesthetics reduce the excitability of nerve cells?
By blocking sodium channels
What is the term for the breakdown of the anesthetic by the body?
Metabolism
What is a common adverse effect of local anesthetic agents on the cardiovascular system?
Hypotension
Study Notes
Local Anesthetic Agents
Classification
-
Ester Local Anesthetics:
- Derived from benzoic acid or para-aminobenzoic acid
- Examples: procaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, cocaine
-
Amide Local Anesthetics:
- Derived from aniline
- Examples: lidocaine, mepivacaine, prilocaine, articaine, bupivacaine, ropivacaine
Mechanism of Action
- Block the generation and conduction of nerve impulses by:
- Inhibiting the influx of sodium ions into the nerve cell
- Reducing the rate of depolarization and repolarization
Pharmacological Properties
- Potency: The ability of an anesthetic to produce anesthesia at a given concentration
- Duration: The length of time the anesthetic remains effective
- Onset: The time it takes for the anesthetic to take effect
- Dose: The amount of anesthetic required to produce anesthesia
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: The rate and extent of absorption of the anesthetic from the site of administration
- Distribution: The distribution of the anesthetic throughout the body
- Metabolism: The breakdown of the anesthetic by the body
- Elimination: The removal of the anesthetic from the body
Clinical Considerations
- Allergic Reactions: Rare, but can occur with ester-type anesthetics
- Toxicity: Can occur with high doses or rapid injection of anesthetics
- Contraindications: Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or epilepsy, may be contraindications for the use of certain local anesthetics
Learn about the classification, mechanism of action, pharmacological properties, pharmacokinetics, and clinical considerations of local anesthetic agents. Understand the differences between ester and amide local anesthetics and their uses in medicine.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
