Use of vasoconstrictors in anesthesia

The increased use of local anesthetic procedures in the busy operating room (OR) environment both within a hospital setting and for outpatient procedures has made it increasingly important for all those who provide health care during the perioperative period to become familiar with these local anesthetic agents. The use of vasoconstrictor agents in combination with local anesthetic solutions is discussed, including their pharmacology, dosage, side effects, and contraindications to their use. Also noted are important anesthetic drug interactions with vasoconstrictor agents as they are used in combination with local anesthesia and general anesthetic agents.