Bupivacaine liposomal versus bupivacaine: comparative review

Abstract

Bupivacaine liposomal injection was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a local anesthetic for use in management of postsurgical pain in adults. When compared to placebo, bupivacaine liposomal decreases postoperative pain and opioid use. This review examines the efficacy of bupivacaine liposomal when compared to conventional bupivacaine ± epinephrine using published and unpublished data provided to the FDA by the manufacturer.

Keywords: bupivacaine; bupivacaine liposomal; formulary; pharmacoeconomics.

Figures

Figure 1.

Bupivicaine liposomal mean pain intensity (PI) versus time plot for hemorrhoidectomy study showing no difference in effect on pain measures compared to placebo after 24 hours.

Figure 2.

Mean pain intensity (PI) versus time plot for bunionectomy study showing no difference in effect on pain measures compared to placebo after 24 hours.