Bupivacaine Longest Duration — FRCA Primary MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyPharmacology - AnalgesicsBupivacaine Longest DurationFRCA Primary

Which local anaesthetic has the longest duration of action when used for peripheral nerve blockade?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Bupivacaine

Bupivacaine has the longest duration for peripheral nerve blocks (4-12 hours depending on site and concentration). This correlates with its high protein binding (~95%). Ropivacaine and levobupivacaine have similar (slightly shorter) durations. Lidocaine lasts 1-2 hours without adrenaline. Chloroprocaine has the shortest duration (~30-60 minutes).

Reference: Peck Hill Williams 2014 Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care