Local anesthesia works by reversibly blocking nerve conduction in a localized area of the body. There are several theories that aim to explain its mechanisms of action and effects on nerve fibers. It is classified according to its biological site of action and chemical properties. Commonly used local anesthetics like lidocaine are thought to work by displacing calcium ions inside nerves, which controls sodium channels and nerve impulse transmission. Local anesthetics are formulated with additional ingredients like vasoconstrictors and preservatives for clinical applications like nerve blocks and infiltration anesthesia.