Pharmacology · single question
Which agent is used to REVERSE soft-tissue anesthesia in a pediatric patient after a dental procedure?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Phentolamine mesylate
- A. Flumazenil reverses BENZODIAZEPINE sedation, not local anesthesia.
- B. CORRECT. Phentolamine mesylate (OraVerse) is a non-selective alpha-adrenergic ANTAGONIST. Injected into the same site, it reverses the vasoconstriction produced by epinephrine, increases local blood flow, and washes the anesthetic away — roughly halving the duration of soft-tissue numbness. This reduces the risk of self-inflicted lip and cheek biting in children. Approved for children 3 years and older weighing at least 15 kg.
- C. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiolysis; it has no effect on local anesthetic duration.
- D. Epinephrine is the VASOCONSTRICTOR that prolongs anesthesia — giving more would extend numbness, not reverse it.
Note: Phentolamine is contraindicated in children under 3 years or under 15 kg.