1. Local Anesthetics

2. Administration Topical - applied to surface of skin Transdermal - drug applied to skin w/ the intention it will penetrate into the tissues Infiltration - injected directly into an area - allowed to diffuse Peripheral Nerve Block - injected into a nerve trunk Central Nerve Block (Epidural) - between vertebrae & dura mater

3. Mechanism of Action Medicine binds to sodium channels within a nerve (axon) to block release of sodium - prevents transmission of nerve impulse Combine with epinephrine to vasoconstrict local blood vessels to prevent spread of medicine

4. Local Anesthetics Advantages –rapid recovery –less residual effects –no post op. confusion –doesnt affect other systems Risks –not complete –requires time to achieve anesthesia

5. Examples Marcaine (Bupivacaine) Xylocaine (Lidocaine) Carbocaine (Novocain)

6. Opioid Analgesics (Narcotics)

7. Opioid Analgesics Characteristics - –Similar to opium; morphine extracted from dried poppy seeds –Relieves moderate to severe pain - illness, surgery, trauma, chronic pain –Treatment for severe diarrhea

8. Opioid Analgesics Administration –Ingestion –Injection Mechanism of Action –prevent release of excitatory neurotransmitter –cause release of endorphins & enkephalins –Blocks Na+ and K+ in the thalamus

9. Opioid Analgesics cont. Adverse Effects –drowsiness, respiratory depression, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sleep –decrease cough –can be addicting –impair thinking & physical abilities –tolerance

10. Opioid Analgesics Examples –Schedule II – (Morphine) –Demerol (Meperidine) –(Codeine) –Percodan (oxycodone w/ASA) –Schedule IV –Darvon (propoxephene)

11. As an allied healthcare professional, what is your responsibility relating to narcotics?