(1) Clinicians may use anesthetic agents as directed by a licensed medical practitioner with prescriptive authority.

(2) Anesthetic agents act by blocking both the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses by decreasing the neuron membrane's permeability to sodium ions.

(3) Anesthetic agents are indicated for relief of pain and inflammation associated with minor skin disorders and for acute inflammatory conditions.

(4) Anesthetic agents are contraindicated if there is sensitivity to the topical anesthetic. Anesthetic agents are also contraindicated if there are abrasions, openings, or a local infection at the site of application.

(5) The specific anesthetic agents permitted by this rule are:

(a) fluoromethane compounds:

(i) dichlorofluoromethane 15 percent;

(ii) trichloromonofluoromethane 85 percent;

(iii) lidocaine hydrochloride;

(iv) lidocaine;

(v) ethyl chloride;

(vi) hydrocortisone menthol (See also ARM 24.165.522(4)); and

(vii) lidocaine hydrocortisone.