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Review
. 1996 Jun;22(6):511-22; quiz 523-4.
doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.1996.tb00366.x.

Local anesthetics

R A Skidmore  1 , J D Patterson, R S Tomsick
Affiliations
Review

Local anesthetics

R A Skidmore et al. Dermatol Surg. 1996 Jun.

Abstract

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.

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