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Bupivacaine (Hyperbaric 0.5%)
Bupivacaine is a local anesthetic that blocks sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, preventing the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses.
Bupivacaine is a local anesthetic that blocks sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, preventing the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses. Used for Spinal anesthesia for surgical procedures, Regional anesthesia for pain management.
At a glance
| Generic name | Bupivacaine (Hyperbaric 0.5%) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Heavy bupivacaine 0.5%, heavy marcaine 0.5% |
| Sponsor | Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust |
| Drug class | Local anesthetic |
| Target | Voltage-gated sodium channels |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Anesthesia |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Bupivacaine reversibly binds to and blocks voltage-gated sodium channels on the inner surface of nerve cell membranes, preventing depolarization and action potential propagation. The hyperbaric formulation (suspended in dextrose) is denser than cerebrospinal fluid, allowing it to settle dependently in the spinal canal for targeted regional anesthesia. This results in loss of sensation and motor function in the anesthetized region.
Approved indications
- Spinal anesthesia for surgical procedures
- Regional anesthesia for pain management
Common side effects
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Headache (post-dural puncture)
- Transient neurological symptoms
- Nausea
- Systemic toxicity (at high doses)
Key clinical trials
- Comparison of Intrathecal Nalbuphine Versus Intrathecal Tramadol as Adjuvants in Subarachnoid Block for Lower Limb Orthopaedic Surgeries (NA)
- Intrathecal Bupivacaine With or Without Dexmetomidine for Cesserian Delivery (PHASE2)
- Bupivacaine for Postoperative Pain After Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (NA)
- The Effect of Epidural Anesthesia on Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter Measurements in Total Knee Prosthesis Surgery (NA)
- Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Versus Intrathecal Morphine for Analgesia After Total Hip Arthroplasty (NA)
- Maternal Satisfaction After Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Delivery
- Comparing Doses of Intrathecal Dexmedetomidine (PHASE4)
- Intrathecal MoRphine Versus Transabdominal Plane Block (TAP) Block for AnalGesic Management in Elective Caesarean Section (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
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