Prilocaine Mnemonic
PRILOCAINE
Prilocaine
Relatively low toxicity
Intermediate duration
Less potent than some other local anesthetics
Often combined with Lidocaine
Causes Methemoglobinemia in high doses
Amide local anesthetic
Infiltration anesthesia, nerve block, epidural
No “i” before “caine” (unlike other amides)
EMLA cream (a mixture with Lidocaine)
Here are some key points about Prilocaine that might be useful for your board exam review:
Classification: Prilocaine is an amide-type local anesthetic.
Concentration: Typically available in a 4% concentration.
Onset of Action: Rapid, usually within 3-5 minutes.
Duration of Action:
- Pulpal Anesthesia: Lasts about 10-60 minutes without a vasoconstrictor, and 1-1.4 hours with a vasoconstrictor.
- Soft Tissue Anesthesia: Lasts about 1.5-4 hours without a vasoconstrictor, and 3-8 hours with a vasoconstrictor.
Metabolism: Metabolized primarily in the liver, but also in the lungs and kidneys.
Excretion: Excreted by the kidneys.
Special Considerations:
- Methemoglobinemia: Prilocaine can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition where hemoglobin is modified such that it cannot release oxygen effectively to tissues.
Contraindications: Should be avoided in patients with a history of methemoglobinemia or those taking medications that can induce this condition.
For more anesthesiology mnemonics check this mnemonic book.
This post covers the points you need to know for your board exams as well as for teaching residents on the daily rounds. Medical professionals can't use the information here to treat their patients nor people can use the information her to treat themselves. If you are having any medical issues, contact your local emergency services or your primary care provider. Please refer to your doctor for medical advice.