Anesthetics are used to prevent you from experiencing pain during surgery. Anesthetics can be used on an area of a person's body---called a local anesthetic---or on the entire body for major surgery. Anesthetics also can prevent the body from going into shock.
Procaine
Local anesthetics are used for minor surgery to a particular area of the body, such as when you are having a biopsy or dental work. Procaine---known more commonly as Novocain, a brand name---for example, is used in dental work to numb the area of the mouth where tooth repair or extraction will take place. It is one of the oldest anesthetics, created in 1898 by Alfred Einhorn, a German chemist.
Lidocaine and Levobupivacaine
Along with its uses to soothe skin inflammations, lidocaine has taken over for procaine in dental work. The numbing effects of levobupivacaine are longer lasting. Both anesthetics rarely produce side effects, although there can be allergic reactions.
Desflurane
Beyond local anesthetics, general anesthetics are used mostly for major surgery where patients must remain unconscious and numb to pain. Desflurane is being used more for surgeries, especially in the Western world where the cost is less of an issue. It may cause problems when inhaled as an anesthetic, such as tachycardia, which is a condition in which the heartbeat becomes rapid.
Isoflurane and Enflurane
Isoflurane is a general anesthetic administered through inhalation. It lowers the body's sensitivity to pain and acts as a muscle relaxant. Enflurane also has been used as a general inhalation anesthetic, but the frequency of use has diminished. It can cause myocardial contractility, which can put a strain on the heart.
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide has been used widely in dentistry since the mid-19th century. Known often as "laughing gas," it provides a euphoric effect when inhaled. It can have adverse effects when exhaled, causing intoxication of the dentist. Because of its dissociative effects, it also has been used recreationally, but cannot be purchased legally without a license.
