Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026

The Mouse Round-window Approach for Ototoxic Agent Delivery: A Rapid and Reliable Technique for Inducing Cochlear Cell Degeneration
Published on: November 26, 2015
[Topical anesthesia of the tympanic membrane using DMSO and local anesthetics]
1Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Klinik, Medizinischen Universität zu Lübeck.
Abstract:
A solution of 10% cocaine hydrochloride plus 10% water in 80% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or 5% tetracaine base in pure DMSO was topically applied to the eardrum in 112 and 52 cases respectively. Both preparations induced well-tolerated analgesia suitable for myringotomy with or without insertion of a grommet in the office environment. DMSO-tetracaine induced analgesia within ten, DMSO-cocaine within 30 minutes. This method has distinct advantages as compared to iontophoretically induced analgesia or topical agents with a destructive mode of action.
Related Concept Videos
Local Anesthetics: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
Local Anesthetics: Mechanism of Action
Local anesthetics are amphiphilic molecules consisting of a hydrophobic aromatic part linked to a hydrophilic group by an ester or amide linkage. They are weak bases and are usually available as salts, which increases their solubility and stability. Once administered, LAs exist in the body either...
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...
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Surface, Infiltration, and Conduction Block Anesthesia
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Spinal Anesthesia
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Epidural Anesthesia
Since epidural anesthetics can be infused through an epidural catheter, all types of drugs, including short-acting ones, can be administered. Chloroprocaine and lidocaine are examples of short and long-duration anesthetics, respectively. Bupivacaine...

