Physical and Chemical Properties
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder or needle-like crystals.
Odor: Slight, characteristic odor.
Melting Point: Approximately 88-90°C.
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in ethanol, chloroform, ether, and fatty oils.
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; may decompose under strong light or high temperatures.
Chemical Structure & Functionality
Larocaine is an ester local anesthetic derived from para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). Its mechanism of action involves reversibly blocking nerve impulses by inhibiting sodium ion influx through voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve membranes, thereby temporarily numbing sensory tissues.
Product Specifications
Purity: Typically ≥98% (high-purity grades available for pharmaceutical use).
Loss on Drying: ≤0.5%.
Residue on Ignition: ≤0.1%.
Heavy Metals: ≤10 ppm (meets pharmaceutical standards).
Applications
Local Anesthesia: Used in topical formulations (creams, ointments, sprays) to relieve pain or itching associated with minor skin irritations, sunburn, insect bites, or minor burns.
Dental and Medical Uses: Occasionally employed in oral gels or lozenges to numb oral mucosa, or as a component in topical anesthetics for minor medical procedures.
Industrial Applications: May serve as an intermediate in the synthesis of other pharmaceuticals or organic compounds.
Safety and Handling
Hazards: Avoid contact with eyes, skin, or mucous membranes; prolonged exposure may cause irritation. Inhalation of dust should be prevented.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, protected from light and moisture. Keep containers tightly sealed.
Shelf Life: Typically 24 months when stored under recommended conditions.
Packaging
Available in various sizes, including 25kg fiber drums, 5kg plastic containers, or smaller vials for laboratory use, depending on the intended application.
This product is primarily valued for its local anesthetic properties, offering rapid-acting, temporary pain relief in topical applications.