Mepivacaine Hydrochloride

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Pronunciation

me-PIV-uh-keyn heye-droh-klohr-eyed - Pronunciation guide

Brand Names

  • Carbocaine V

Description

Mepivacaine hydrochloride, 1-methyl-2', 6'-pipecoloxylidide monohydrochloride, is commercially provided as a clear, aqueous solution. It is a local anesthetic with rapid onset and long-lasting effect. CARBOCAINE-V is available as 50 mL multiple-dose vials. Store at controlled room temperature, 68° to 77°F (20° to 25°C).

Usage

 rx=Mepivacaine Hydrochloride is used as a local anesthetic for infiltration around a surgical site, nerve blocks and joint anesthesia (typically used in lameness examinations), epidural (spinal) anesthesia, and topical and/or infiltration anesthesia of the lining of the throat and larynx prior to laryngeal surgery.

It is used in a similar manner to lidocaine hydrochloride, but has a longer-lasting effect. It is often used to anesthetize portions of the hoof or lower leg for surgical procedures.

Dosage and Administration

Prescription medicationMepivacaine Hydrochloride
Method Dosage Concentration Period Duration
Nerve block 3-5 ml 20 mg/ml Treatment NA
Intraarticular injection 10-15 ml 20 mg/ml Treatment NA
Infiltration As required 20 mg/ml Treatment NA
Anesthesia of the laryngeal mucosa by topical spray, 25 to 40 mL, by infiltration, 20 to 50 mL 20 mg/ml Treatment NA

Notes:

  • Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
  • Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian).
  • The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your equine appears to feel better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse.
  • This medication may be available in forms and concentrations not noted in the above table. Always check the label and literature provided with the medication about the form and concentration and DO NOT USE the calculator if the information differs.
  • Calculator is for educational purposes only. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding use of this, or any medication.

Side Effects

Moderate, transient tissue edema may occur at the site of injection.

Precautions

As with other anesthetics, injections should always be made aseptically and with frequent aspirations.

Not for use in horses intended for food.

Mepivacaine HCl is FDA approved for use in horses.

Keep out of reach of children.

Mepivacaine HCl is a prohibited substance in most sanctioned competitions. It is important to check with the proper regulatory group.

Interactions

The innate vasoconstrictive activity of CARBOCAINE-V Sterile Aqueous Solution may be enhanced by the addition of epinephrine at 1:100,000. Acepromazine may increase the toxicity of organophosphates. Do not use Acepromazine Maleat Injection to control tremors that result from organic phosphate poisoning. Do not use with procain hydrochloride.

Overdose

Possible seizures and cardiotoxicity with overdose.  Hypotension and respiratory arrest are possible adverse consequences of epidural administration. Acute and chronic toxicity studies have shown a very low order of toxicity.

About the Author

EquiMed Staff

EquiMed staff writers team up to provide articles that require periodic updates based on evolving methods of equine healthcare. Compendia articles, core healthcare topics and more are written and updated as a group effort. Our review process includes an important veterinarian review, helping to assure the content is consistent with the latest understanding from a medical professional.

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