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Local anesthetics
R A Skidmore1, J D Patterson, R S Tomsick
1Department of Dermatology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA.
Background:
Dermatology is dependent upon the effects of local anesthetics for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. A working knowledge of the drugs' actions and interactions is necessary for anyone aspiring to optimize the benefits derived from the use of local anesthetic agents.
Objective:
This article reviews nerve physiology, pharmacology, classification of local anesthetics, adverse reactions (toxic, drug, allergic), local anesthetic use in pregnancy, alternatives to the "-caine" anesthetics, methods for reducing the pain of infiltration, and new agents under development.
Conclusion:
Local anesthetics are safe and effective. With the understanding of the actions and interactions of this class of drugs, maximum patient safety and satisfaction can be achieved.