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Alkalinization of amide local anaesthetics by addition of 1% sodium bicarbonate solution

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 August 2006

Q. J. W. Milner
Affiliation:
Current address: Department of Anaesthesia, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 2QQ.
B. C. Guard
Affiliation:
Current address: Department of Anaesthesia, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 2QQ.
J. G. Allen
Affiliation:
Department of Anaesthesia, Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, Gayton Road, Kings Lynn PE30 4ET, UK
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Abstract

A number of methods exist by which the pH of local anaesthetic solutions may be increased. Most commonly, these require the addition of differing amounts of sodium bicarbonate solution according to the local anaesthetic drugs. Sodium bicarbonate (1%) was titrated against pH in six commonly used local anaesthetic solutions. Titration curves of pH and volume of sodium bicarbonate solution added are shown for this group of local anaesthetics. This study demonstrates that 1 mL of 1% sodium bicarbonate solution may be used to alkalinize this range of local anaesthetics without the risk of precipitation. We also conclude that Ropivacaine (at concentration 0.75% and 1.0%), is unsuitable for alkalinization since it precipitates at a pH of 6.0.

Type
Original Article
Copyright
2000 European Society of Anaesthesiology

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