What side effect is commonly associated with local anesthetics?

Local anesthetics are known to cause a variety of side effects, and among these, hypotension is a common concern. When local anesthetics are administered, particularly in larger doses or in certain areas, they can lead to vasodilation—the widening of blood vessels—resulting in a decrease in blood pressure. This is particularly significant when the anesthetic affects sympathetic nerve fibers, which play a key role in maintaining vascular tone.

Hypotension can also occur if the local anesthetic inadvertently enters the systemic circulation, leading to cardiovascular effects that can compromise hemodynamics. This is why monitoring blood pressure is crucial during procedures that involve local anesthesia. In contrast, increased heart rate, hyperactivity, and dehydration are not typically associated with local anesthetics; instead, they may more commonly be linked to other medical conditions or the use of different types of medications.