What is the duration of 2% Lidocaine with 1 to 100,000 epinephrine?

The duration of action for 2% Lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine is typically in the range of 1 to 3 hours. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that blocks nerve conduction, and when combined with epinephrine, a vasoconstrictor, its effects are prolonged. The epinephrine reduces blood flow to the area, allowing the Lidocaine to remain active in the tissue for a longer period.

The actions of Lidocaine without a vasoconstrictor generally last about 30 minutes to 1 hour, so the addition of epinephrine significantly extends its duration, hence falling within that 1 to 3-hour window. Other choices reflect durations that exceed the typical effects of this anesthetic-vasoconstrictor combination, as Lidocaine is not effective for durations as long as 4 to 10 hours in routine dental applications.