LA pharmacology 2

Question 1

what is the chemical structure of articaine?

Answer 1

amide with an ester group

Question 2

what is the unique selling point of articaine?

Answer 2

diffuses better through bone than lidocaine -> can anesthetise lower posterior teeth

Question 3

why does articaine have icnreased diffusibility into tissues?

Answer 3

thiophene ring as its lipophilic component

Question 4

is there a vasoconstrictor in articaine?

Answer 4

yes adrenaline

Question 5

is there a preservative in articaine?

Answer 5

yes

Question 6

what is the maximum dose for articaine?

Answer 6

7mg/kg

Question 7

what considerations should we take before choosing articaine?

Answer 7

don’t use in children <4yrs

dont breastfeed for 48hrs after

avoid for inferior alveolar blocks

Question 8

explain three things about the safety of articaine

Answer 8

Metabolised in the plasma and liver therefore rapid breakdown and low systemic toxicity

High protein binding - binds to protein then releases slowly

Lower adrenaline concentrations

Question 9

why is articaine not used for blocks?

Answer 9

linked to paraesthesia

Question 10

articaine should be considered for use by infiltration for? 3

Answer 10

failed IABs
supplementing IABs
as a potential alternative to IABs