Anaesthesia Flashcards
1
Q
What are 3 examples of local anaesthetics?
A
- Bupivacaine
- Lidocaine
- Ropivacaine
2
Q
How do local anaesthetics work?
A
Block Na+ channels - highly lipophilic so cross the plasma membrane and then block the channels
The block is use dependent and small myelinated nerves are blocked in preference
3
Q
What is the different between ester and amide local anaesthetics?
A
Esters are shorter acting (due to esterases)
Amides are longer acting
4
Q
Why do you often given adrenaline alongside local anaesthetics?
A
To increase the duration of the action - keeps the anaesthetic where you put it
5
Q
When are local anaesthetics used?
A
- Dentistry
- Obstetrics
- Regional surgery when the patient is awake
- Post-op for wound pain
- Chronic pain management
6
Q
What are the ADRs of local anaesthetics?
A
Side effects usually occur due to systemic spread - e.g. cardiovascular toxicity as block Na+ channels
