Dental Pharmacology Flashcards

What chemical classification does lidocaine belong to?

Answer: Amide

Lidocaine is an amide-type local anesthetic, metabolized by the liver rather than by plasma pseudocholinesterase.

What is the primary reason epinephrine is added to local anesthetic solutions?

Answer: To prolong anesthesia duration and reduce systemic absorption

Epinephrine is a vasoconstrictor that slows local blood flow, prolonging anesthetic action and reducing systemic toxicity.

Which antibiotic is the first-line choice for infective endocarditis prophylaxis before dental procedures, per AHA guidelines?

Answer: Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin 2 g orally 30–60 minutes before the procedure is the current American Heart Association recommendation.

What does the term 'analgesic' mean in dental pharmacology?

Answer: A drug that relieves pain

Analgesics are medications designed to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness.

Which local anesthetic formulation is most appropriate for a patient with a documented sulfite allergy when profound anesthesia is required?

Answer: Mepivacaine 3% plain

Mepivacaine plain contains no vasoconstrictor and therefore no bisulfite preservative, making it safe for sulfite-sensitive patients.

What DEA schedule classification applies to most opioid pain medications such as oxycodone?

Answer: Schedule II

Oxycodone and similar opioids are Schedule II controlled substances because of their high potential for abuse and dependence.

Which of the following is a common side effect of opioid analgesics prescribed after dental procedures?

Answer: Constipation and nausea

Opioids frequently cause constipation and nausea due to their action on opioid receptors throughout the gastrointestinal tract.