Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 25, 2026

Assessing Changes in Volatile General Anesthetic Sensitivity of Mice after Local or Systemic Pharmacological Intervention
Published on: October 16, 2013
[Experimental data on the interactions of alpha 2-adrenoceptor agonists with anaesthetics, analgesics and local
1Département Anästhesie, Universitätskliniken/Kantonsspital, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland.
Abstract:
The interactions of alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonists with anaesthetics, analgesics and local anaesthetics are not only of practical importance in many areas of anaesthesia and pain therapy, but also of significant theoretical interest. Laboratory investigations and animal research allow us to study the pharmacological mechanisms of these drug interactions by using the tools of molecular biology. This may lead to the establishment of a scientific basis allowing the definition of rational drug therapies. In the first part of this overview, recent data on local anaesthetic effects of alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonists on peripheral nerve conduction and their interaction with local anaesthetics are presented. Some important experimental work focusing on additive and synergistic spinal interactions of alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonists with opioids and some other agents are then discussed. Finally, there is a brief reference to the central role of the spinal cord in mediating and controlling nociception.
More Related Videos
14:52Recording Brain Electromagnetic Activity During the Administration of the Gaseous Anesthetic Agents Xenon and Nitrous Oxide in Healthy Volunteers
Published on: January 13, 2018
08:16Optogenetic Activation of Afferent Pathways in Brain Slices and Modulation of Responses by Volatile Anesthetics
Published on: July 23, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Local Anesthetics: Pharmacokinetics
Local Anesthetics: Adverse Effects
Once absorbed into the systemic circulation, local anesthetics can affect the organs that depend on the functioning of sodium...
Local Anesthetics: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
Adrenergic Receptors: ɑ Subtype
Adrenaline ≥ Noradrenaline >> Isoprenaline
α-adrenoceptors are further divided into α1 and α2-adrenoceptors.
α1-Adrenoceptors: These receptors are located postsynaptically on the effector organs and cause constriction of smooth muscle mediated by activation of phospholipase C—inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate...
Local Anesthetics: Differential Sensitivity of Nerve Fibers
Local Anesthetics: Common Agents and Their Applications
Cocaine is an ester of benzoic acid and methylecgogine. It is used to anesthetize and vasoconstrict locally. Currently, it is used primarily for topical applications. It is beneficial for surgeries on the upper respiratory tract, providing anesthesia and shrinking the mucosa. Cocaine in the form of cocaine hydrochloride is...