section name header

Pronunciation

byoo-PI-vi-kane LYE-poe-some

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: anesthetics (topical/local)

Pharmacologic Classification: amides

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Local anesthetics inhibit initiation and conduction of sensory nerve impulses by altering the influx of sodium and efflux of potassium in neurons, slowing or stopping pain transmission. Liposome formulation prolongs the duration of action.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Lessened postoperative pain.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Depends on amount injected and vascularity of administration site. Some systemic absorption occurs; however action is primarily local.

Distribution: Widely distributed following release from liposomes, high concentrations in highly perfused organs (heart, lungs, liver, brain). Crosses the placenta.

Protein Binding: 95%.

Metabolism/Excretion: Mostly metabolized by the liver, metabolites are primarily renally excreted; 6% excreted unchanged in urine.

Half-Life: Following bunionectomy: 34.1 hr; following hemorrhoidectomy: 23.8 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(plasma concentrations)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
infiltrationunknown0.5–2 hr96 hr

Pain relief lasted for 24 hr.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: peripheral edema, prolonged AV conduction, tachycardia

Derm: pruritus

GI: constipation, nausea, vomiting

Hemat: anemia, methemoglobinemia

MS: back pain, muscle spasm

Neuro: CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM TOXICITY, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia

Misc: fever, HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS (INCLUDING ANAPHYLACTOID-LIKE REACTIONS AND LARYNGEAL EDEMA) , procedural pain

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Local Analgesia

Regional Analgesia

Availability

Assessment

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Exparel