Prilocaine
Prilocaine is an intermediate-acting amide-type local anesthetic. It works by blocking the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses through the inhibition of sodium ion channels in the neuronal membrane. A metabolic byproduct of prilocaine is o-toluidine, which can induce methemoglobinemia, especially at high doses or in sensitive patient populations.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage varies significantly based on the procedure, area to be anesthetized, vascularity of the tissues, and patient response. In adults, the maximum single dose should not exceed 6 mg/kg (up to 400 mg) without epinephrine, or 8 mg/kg (up to 600 mg) with epinephrine. For children, dosage must be highly individualized and calculated by a healthcare professional, typically not exceeding 5 mg/kg.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Avoid use
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Contraindicated in neonates and young infants due to high risk of methemoglobinemia.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Max 1-2 mg/kg
- Frequency
- Single administration
- Tracking Notes
- Use extreme caution. Administration must be performed and monitored by a qualified medical professional.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Max 2-3 mg/kg
- Frequency
- Single administration
- Tracking Notes
- Dose must be individualized and calculated strictly by weight using the lowest effective concentration.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Up to 5 mg/kg
- Frequency
- Single administration
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed weight-based limits to minimize systemic toxicity and risk of methemoglobinemia.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Up to 5 mg/kg
- Frequency
- Single administration
- Tracking Notes
- Administer slowly with frequent aspiration to prevent accidental intravascular injection.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Avoid use | Not applicable | Contraindicated in neonates and young infants due to high risk of methemoglobinemia. |
| 5-7 kg | Max 1-2 mg/kg | Single administration | Use extreme caution. Administration must be performed and monitored by a qualified medical professional. |
| 8-10 kg | Max 2-3 mg/kg | Single administration | Dose must be individualized and calculated strictly by weight using the lowest effective concentration. |
| 11-15 kg | Up to 5 mg/kg | Single administration | Do not exceed weight-based limits to minimize systemic toxicity and risk of methemoglobinemia. |
| 16-20 kg | Up to 5 mg/kg | Single administration | Administer slowly with frequent aspiration to prevent accidental intravascular injection. |
Formulation
Purpose
Local and topical anesthesia for dental procedures, infiltration, peripheral nerve blocks, epidural anesthesia, and surface anesthesia of the skin.
Generic Name
PrilocaineBranded Drug Names
Prilocaine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.