Local anesthetics.

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.