NCIt definition : The hydrochloride salt form of articaine, an amide-type local anesthetic. Articaine
hydrochloride reversibly blocks nerve impulse conduction by binding to specific membrane
sodium ion channels thereby interfering with the electrical excitation in the nerve,
slowing the propagation of the nerve impulse and reducing the rate of rise of the
action potential. This results in a loss of sensation at the injection site. Articaine
hydrochloride is used for relief of pain in minor operations, usually in combination
with the vasoconstrictor epinephrine.;