Liposomal Bupivicaine (bupivacaine)

Liposomal bupivacaine (marketed as Exparel) is an extended-release formulation of the amide-type local anesthetic bupivacaine. It utilizes the proprietary DepoFoam multivesicular liposome technology to encapsulate bupivacaine, allowing for a slow, sustained release of the drug over an extended period (up to 72 hours). Developed by Pacira BioSciences, it is FDA-approved for local infiltration in adults and children aged 6 and older to produce postsurgical local analgesia, and for regional nerve blocks such as interscalene brachial plexus block and sciatic nerve block. Bupivacaine works by binding to the intracellular portion of voltage-gated sodium channels, blocking sodium influx and preventing the generation and conduction of nerve impulses. This prolonged duration of action aims to provide effective postoperative pain control while potentially reducing the need for systemic opioids.

Brand names

Exparel

Other names

bupivacaine liposomeliposomal bupivacainebupivacaine liposomal