Which of the following anesthetics is considered to be an amide?

Lidocaine is categorized as an amide anesthetic due to its chemical structure, which contains an amide linkage in its molecular composition. Amide anesthetics are characterized by their stability and longer duration of action compared to ester anesthetics. Lidocaine is commonly used as a local anesthetic in various medical settings, including ocular procedures, because of its effectiveness and relatively low toxicity.

In contrast, other options such as proparacaine, benoxinate, and cocaine are classified as ester anesthetics. Esters are typically hydrolyzed more quickly than amides, leading to a shorter duration of action and a different profile in terms of metabolism and potential allergic reactions. Understanding the difference between these two classes is crucial for determining the appropriate anesthetic to use in clinical situations, including their implications for patient safety and efficacy.