Which local anesthetic has a quicker onset of action?

Lidocaine is known for its quicker onset of action when compared to bupivacaine. This characteristic is particularly important in veterinary anesthesia, where rapid pain control is often required. Lidocaine typically produces anesthesia within a few minutes after administration, making it a suitable choice for procedures needing immediate pain relief.

In contrast, bupivacaine, while it provides long-lasting anesthesia, has a slower onset, taking approximately 15 to 30 minutes to take effect. This slower onset can be beneficial in situations where prolonged pain relief is more critical than immediate action, but it is not ideal for scenarios where rapid intervention is necessary. Therefore, the choice of lidocaine as the local anesthetic with a quicker onset is based on its pharmacological properties, making it the preferred option in many acute clinical situations.