Stability of local anesthetics in the dental cartridge.

ABSTRACT

Recent manufacturer recalls of local anesthetics have emphasized the problems with storage stability. This article reviews the principles of drug stability, mechanisms of degradation of commonly used vasoconstrictors, research on the stability of commercially produced local anesthetic preparations, and possible effects of the container-closure system. The review concludes with a list of practical and clinical suggestions on how to minimize storage stability problems with dental local anesthetics.