The quaternary lidocaine derivative QX-314 in combination with bupivacaine for long-lasting nerve block: Efficacy, toxicity, and the optimal formulation in rats

OBJECTIVE The quaternary lidocaine derivative (QX-314) in combination with bupivacaine can produce long-lasting nerve blocks in vivo, indicating potential clinical application. The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy, safety, and the optimal formulation of this combination. METHODS QX-314 and bupivacaine at different concentration ratios were injected in the vicinity of the sciatic nerve in rats; bupivacaine and saline served as controls (n = 6~10). Rats were inspected for durations of effective sensory and motor nerve blocks, systemic adverse effects, and histological changes of local tissues. Mathematical models were established to reveal drug-interaction, concentration-effect relationships, and the optimal ratio of QX-314 to bupivacaine. RESULTS 0.2~1.5% QX-314 with 0.03~0.5% bupivacaine produced 5.8~23.8 h of effective nerve block; while 0.5% bupivacaine alone was effective for 4 h. No systemic side effects were observed; local tissue reactions were similar to those caused by 0.5% bupivacaine if QX-314 were used < 1.2%. The weighted modification model was successfully established, which revealed that QX-314 was the main active ingredient while bupivacaine was the synergist. The formulation, 0.9% QX-314 plus 0.5% bupivacaine, resulted in 10.1 ± 0.8 h of effective sensory and motor nerve blocks. CONCLUSION The combination of QX-314 and bupivacaine facilitated prolonged sciatic nerve block in rats with a satisfactory safety profile, maximizing the duration of nerve block without clinically important systemic and local tissue toxicity. It may emerge as an alternative approach to post-operative pain treatment.