What is the Difference Between Dibucaine and Lidocaine?

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Dibucaine and lidocaine are both local anesthetics, but they differ in their chemical structure and side effect profiles. The main difference between dibucaine and lidocaine is that dibucaine is a carboxamide, whereas lidocaine is an acetamide.

Dibucaine is primarily used as a topical ointment, while lidocaine can be administered through various routes, including subcutaneous, topical, and oral methods.

Side effects of dibucaine can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, severe burning or stinging sensation, rectal bleeding, rash, and skin irritation. On the other hand, adverse effects of lidocaine are uncommon, and some common side effects may include nervousness, agitation, and anxiety.

Comparative Table: Dibucaine vs Lidocaine

Dibucaine and lidocaine are both local anesthetics, but they have some differences in their chemical structure and side effects. Here is a table comparing the two:

Property Dibucaine Lidocaine
Chemical Class Carboxamide Acetamide
Route of Administration Topical ointment Subcutaneous, topical, or oral methods
Common Side Effects Difficulty in breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, and throat, severe burning or stinging sensation, rectal bleeding, rash, irritation on the skin Nervousness, agitation, anxiety
Molar Mass 234.34 g/mol 234.34 g/mol
Melting Point Not mentioned 68 °C
Adverse Effects More common and severe Less common and milder

Dibucaine is a carboxamide, while lidocaine is an acetamide. Lidocaine has a broader range of administration routes compared to dibucaine. Dibucaine is typically used as a topical ointment, whereas lidocaine can be administered subcutaneously, topically, or orally.

Side effects of dibucaine can include difficulty in breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, and throat, severe burning or stinging sensation, rectal bleeding, rash, and irritation on the skin. On the other hand, adverse effects of lidocaine are less common and may include nervousness, agitation, and anxiety.