Local anaesthetics react with certain metals and cause the release of their respective ions which, if injected, may cause severe local irritation. Adequate precautions should be taken to avoid prolonged contact between XYLOCAINE solutions and metal surfaces such as metal bowls, cannulae and syringes with metal parts.
Solutions showing discolouration and unused portions of solutions from ampoules and single dose vials should be discarded. Surface sterilisation using pure, undiluted isopropyl alcohol (91%) or 70% ethyl alcohol (USP) may be carried out if desired.
Sign Out