Absorption of bupivacaine after topical application to the oropharynx

Bupivacaine in dosages of 20, 40, 60, or 80 mg was applied by spray to the oropharynx of 24 volunteers. Blood levels of bupivacaine were detectable at 10 minutes, peaked at 60-90 minutes, and were still measurable at 150 minutes after administration. The maximum bupivacaine plasma level recorded in any volunteer was 0.96 -g/mL (after 80 mg). Increase in pulse rate and decrease in systolic blood pressure were significantly correlated with increasing bupivacaine dosage. No clinical signs or symptoms of drug toxicity were observed in any subject.