Pharmacological Insights of Ropivacaine and Clinical Applications: A Narrative Review

Cureus. 2024 Aug 23;16(8):e67565. doi: 10.7759/cureus.67565. eCollection 2024 Aug.

Abstract

This review focuses on ropivacaine, a long-acting amide local anaesthetic, detailing its pharmacology and clinical applications. The article highlights its applications in providing analgesia, prolonging pain relief, and improving recovery outcomes in surgical settings. Ropivacaine is particularly effective for epidural labor analgesia in obstetrics, promoting stable hemodynamics and rapid onset when used with adjuvants. Its prolonged anesthetic effects reduce the need for postoperative opioids in peripheral nerve blocks. Intrathecal administration may enhance functional recovery and postoperative analgesia in various surgical procedures. While effective in treating acute pain, its role in chronic pain management remains unclear, indicating a need for further research. The review underscores the versatility and efficacy of ropivacaine in acute pain management and the importance of exploring its potential in chronic pain treatment.

Keywords: bupivacaine; labor pain; local anesthesia; pain; post-operative; ropivacaine.

Publication types

  • Review