L8 Local Anesthetics Flashcards
For ion channels: inactivation vs deactivation
ion flow blocked by a gating mechanism vs closing of the channel
What is the MOA of LA?
Stop axonal conduction by blocking sodium channels in axonal membrane
- when applied locally in appropriate concentration
- prevent sodium ion entry
- slow down or bring conduction to a halt
Many LAs bind most strongly to the
inactivated and activated states
Passage of train of action potentials causes the sodium channel to
cycle through open and inactivated states
depth of LA nerve block increases with action potential frequency because LA molecules
- gain access to the channel more easily when channel is open
- have higher affinity for the inactivated than for the resting (closed) channels
Depth of LA nerve block increases with action potential frequency because LA molecules
- gain access to the channel more easily when channel is open
- have higher affinity for the inactivated than for the resting (closed) channels
Are LAs selective/non-selective modifiers of neuronal function?
non-selective ie. they will block action potentials in all neurons to which they have access
How to achieve selectivity for LAs?
by delivering LA to a limited area: topical dosage form or superficial injection
Factors affecting LA action (3)
lipid solubility, nerve types (size, frequency, position, myelination), pH dependency
Are more/less lipid soluble drugs more potent and act longer?
More
Examples of more hydrophobic LA
Tetracaine, etidocaine, bupivacaine
Examples of less hydrophobic LA
Lidocaine, procaine, mepivacaine
Does more potent or longer of duration equate to better efficacy?
Depending on applications!
Is size or myelination a more important factor affecting LA action?
size
- small myelinated axons > small non-myelinated axons > large myelinated axons
- nociceptive and sympathetic transmission is blocked first
LA molecules are
weak bases (pKa 8-9) - mainly (but not completely) ionized at physiological pH
