Professional
Technical
IVT
Bupivacaine
Pronunciation: byoo-PIV-ah-kane
Long-acting local anesthetic commonly used in oral surgery for extended postoperative pain control.
Full Definition
Bupivacaine is an amide-type local anesthetic with a duration of action ranging from 4-8 hours, making it particularly valuable in oral surgical procedures requiring prolonged numbness. It is available in various concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%) and may be combined with epinephrine for enhanced hemostasis and duration. The drug blocks sodium channels in nerve membranes, preventing pain signal transmission. Due to its cardiotoxic potential at high doses, careful attention to maximum dosing guidelines is essential.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify concentration and presence/absence of vasoconstrictor in documentation.
In Context
- "The extraction sites were infiltrated with 0.5% bupivacaine with epinephrine for extended postoperative analgesia." — Operative report
- "Maximum safe dosage of bupivacaine is 2.5 mg/kg body weight for healthy adults." — Anesthesia protocol
Also known as
Marcaine
Sensorcaine
Don't confuse with
lidocaine
articaine