Local Anaesthetics course

This session describes the pharmacology of local anaesthetics and their clinical uses as analgesics.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the ionic basis for the development and propagation of an action potential in a sensory nerve
• Outline the mechanism of action of local anaesthetics
• Explain side-effects and toxicity associated with local anaesthetic use
• Identify common routes of administration
• Describe the use of local anaesthetics in neuropathic pain

Local anaesthetics are drugs that cause a temporary loss of sensation or feeling in a limited area of the body, by reversibly blocking pain conduction in nerve fibres.