Ropivacaine
Pronunciation: roh-PIV-ah-kane
A long-acting local anesthetic with reduced cardiac toxicity, commonly used for epidural anesthesia in obstetrics.
Full Definition
Ropivacaine is an amide local anesthetic with a long duration of action and reduced potential for cardiac and central nervous system toxicity compared to bupivacaine. Its pure S-enantiomer structure provides differential blockade, offering good sensory anesthesia with relatively less motor blockade, making it particularly suitable for epidural labor analgesia where ambulation may be desired. The drug has lower lipophilicity than bupivacaine, resulting in less placental transfer and reduced fetal exposure. Typical concentrations range from 0.1-0.2% for labor epidural and 0.5-1% for cesarean section, often combined with opioids to enhance analgesia.
Usage
Usage note: Lower concentrations provide analgesia with minimal motor block; higher concentrations for surgical anesthesia.
In Context
- "Ropivacaine 0.1% with fentanyl was used for labor epidural analgesia to preserve motor function." — Labor analgesia protocol
- "The reduced cardiotoxicity of ropivacaine makes it safer than bupivacaine in obstetric patients." — Drug selection rationale