Why is epinephrine often added to local anesthetic solutions?
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Correct answer: To prolong anesthetic effect by vasoconstriction
Epinephrine causes vasoconstriction at the injection site. This slows systemic absorption of the anesthetic and prolongs its local effect.
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More Local Anesthetics questions
- Which local anesthetic has a long duration of action and is commonly used in epidural anesthesia?
- Which adverse effect may occur with systemic toxicity of local anesthetics?
- Which organ is primarily responsible for the metabolism of amide local anesthetics?
- Which local anesthetic is commonly used as a topical anesthetic in sprays and gels?
- Which property of a local anesthetic influences its ability to penetrate nerve membranes?
- Which factor mainly determines the duration of action of a local anesthetic?