articaine

Articaine is a **small-molecule amide local anesthetic** used primarily for local and regional anesthesia, especially in dentistry, and is also being developed in a topical ophthalmic formulation. Pharmacologically, it blocks **voltage-gated sodium channels** in peripheral nerves, preventing initiation and propagation of action potentials and thereby producing reversible loss of sensation. Unlike many other amide anesthetics, articaine contains a thiophene ring and an additional ester group, which contributes to rapid tissue penetration and hydrolysis. Publicly verifiable development activity includes American Genomics' **AG-920**, an articaine sterile topical ophthalmic solution studied in Phase 1 and Phase 3 trials for ocular surface anesthesia, while marketed dental products include articaine hydrochloride formulations, commonly combined with epinephrine for infiltration or nerve block anesthesia.

Brand names

OrablocSeptanestUbistesinUltracain

Other names

articaine hydrochloride阿替卡因