Pharmacology · single question

A patient is allergic to lidocaine. They need local anesthesia. All of the following amide anesthetics could ALSO cause an allergic reaction EXCEPT:

  1. Bupivacaine
  2. Tetracaine
  3. Mepivacaine
  4. Articaine
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Tetracaine

  • A. Incorrect — bupivacaine IS an amide anesthetic with potential cross-reactivity.
  • B. Correct. TETRACAINE is an ESTER anesthetic (not an amide). Allergies to amide anesthetics do NOT cross-react with ESTER anesthetics because they have different chemical structures. A patient truly allergic to lidocaine (amide) could safely receive tetracaine (ester). Note: Most 'allergic reactions' to lidocaine are actually reactions to the preservative (methylparaben), not the lidocaine itself.
  • C. Incorrect — mepivacaine IS an amide anesthetic and could cross-react. Amide allergies (though rare) can potentially affect other amide anesthetics.
  • D. Incorrect — articaine IS an amide anesthetic with potential cross-reactivity.

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