Which of the following is an example of an ester-type local anesthetic?

Cocaine is indeed an example of an ester-type local anesthetic. Ester-type local anesthetics are characterized by the presence of an ester linkage in their chemical structure. Cocaine was one of the first local anesthetics used in medical practice and is still utilized today for certain procedures, particularly in otolaryngology. Its effectiveness as a local anesthetic is tied to its ability to block nerve conduction. Ester anesthetics are typically metabolized by tissue and plasma esterases, which differentiates them from amide-type anesthetics.

In contrast, lidocaine, bupivacaine, and ropivacaine are examples of amide-type local anesthetics. They contain an amide linkage in their structures and are generally longer-acting due to their different metabolic pathways. Understanding the distinction between ester and amide local anesthetics is crucial for their clinical application and management, making cocaine a significant reference point in anesthetic pharmacology.