Ropivacaine an aminoamide analgesic is a racemic mixture of "S" and "R" enantiomers used for local anesthesia or for short term management of pain. Ropivacaine acts to block generation and propagation of action potentials by increasing the threshold for electrical excitation. This is done by blocking the sodium channel which causes a inhibits depolarization and decreases action potentials. Ropivacaine is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P4501A through aromatic hydroxylation. The resulting metabolite 3-hydroxy ropivacaine is excreted by diruesis. Precaution should be taken with high systemic doses of ropivacaine which can effect the central nervous system and cardiovascular system.

Ropivacaine References