Effectiveness Study of Different Local Anesthetic Mixtures

Purpose and Background The purpose of this research study is to investigate the benefits of mixing lidocaine and bupivacaine for numbing the skin. Lidocaine and bupivacaine are two commonly used medications to numb the skin for minor procedures. Lidocaine has a faster onset. Bupivacaine has a longer duration. They are often combined with epinephrine to increase the length of action. These medications are used to control pain at the time of the operation and to decrease discomfort immediately afterward. Participating in the study involves injection of local anesthetic containing lidocaine, bupivacaine, and lidocaine and bupivacain with epinephrine at 4 sites on the forearm. Your participation will potentially improve the administration of these medications in persons undergoing a variety of procedures. You will be one of approximately 25 healthy volunteer subjects in this research study.