Comparison of the Vasoconstrictive and Anesthetic Effects of Intranasally Applied Cocaine vs. Xylometazoline/Lidocaine Solution

Abstract

Cocaine solution has traditionally been the agent of choice for vasoconstriction and anesthesia when applied topically to the nasal mucosa during nasal operative procedures. Because of the relative scarcity and resulting expense of cocaine, there has arisen an impetus for an alternative intranasal solution for mucosal anesthesia and vasoconstriction. As a logical alternative, we have used a mixed solution of xylometazoline and lidocaine with reasonable results. No clinical studies comparing the efficacy of the two solutions exist, however, and there is presently no such solution commercially available. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study was undertaken to assess the relative efficacy of the preparations. Both solutions resulted in a marked and roughly equivalent degree of mucosal vasoconstriction (as evidenced by comparable increases in nasal airway cross-sectional area). Subjective pain ratings of mucosal pin-prick decreased a surprisingly small degree after application of both solutions. It appears that xylometazoline/lidocaine solution is comparable to cocaine solution for purposes of vasoconstriction and anesthesia during intranasal operative procedures.