Handbook of Local Anesthetics

A local anaesthetic (LA) is a drug that prevents the body from feeling any sensation of pain. In contrast to a general anaesthetic, a local anaesthetic causes pain to disappear in a specific body area without causing loss of consciousness. Almost every nerve between the peripheral nerve terminals and the central nervous system can be blocked with local anaesthetics. Paralysis (loss of muscle power) can be induced if LA is applied to specific nerve pathways, a phenomenon known as local anaesthetic nerve block. LA are used in acute pain, chronic pain and surgery. As a result of the local anaesthetic, edema of the tongue, throat and larynx might occur. During the administration of LA injection, there is a risk of accidental injury to local blood vessels. Also, there are chances of excitatory or depressant effects on the central nervous system, along with cardiac toxicity and allergy. This book presents various works that consist of contributions made by international experts. Its objective is to present upcoming studies on local anaesthetics. The book is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area of study as well as for experts.