Influence of Cocaine and Lidocaine on Human Nasal Cilia: Beat Frequency and Harmony In Vitro

Abstract

The effects of cocaine and lidocaine on ciliary beat frequency and ciliary beat harmony were studied in biopsy specimens of normal human nasal mucosa. Cocaine was investigated in increasing concentrations (0.875%, 1.75%, 3.5%, and 7%) in five samples; lidocaine (0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%), in four samples. Ciliary beat was recorded photoelectrically and the signal was analyzed. Cocaine was found to decrease ciliary beat frequency and ciliary beat harmony at concentrations of 1.75% and higher. Partially reversible ciliostasis was seen at 7%. Lidocaine was found to decrease ciliary beat frequency and ciliary beat harmony at concentrations of 0.25% and higher. Irreversible ciliostasis was seen at 2%. Cocaine and lidocaine affected ciliary beat frequency and ciliary beat harmony in the same way. (Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 1994;120:197-201)