Marcain

Marcain is a long-acting local anesthetic of the amide type used for local infiltration, peripheral nerve blocks, and neuraxial blocks (epidural and spinal anesthesia). It works by reversibly binding to the intracellular portion of voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve fibers. This binding stabilizes the neuronal membrane and prevents the influx of sodium ions required for the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses, effectively producing a reversible block of sensory and motor function. Developed historically by Astra (now AstraZeneca), it is characterized by its high potency and significantly longer duration of action compared to shorter-acting anesthetics like lidocaine, making it a mainstay for postoperative pain management and surgical anesthesia.

Brand names

MarcainMarcaineMarcain HeavyMarcaine SpinalMarcaine Heavy Spinal

Other names

bupivacaine hydrochloridebupivacainebupivacaine HCl