A topical mucoadhesive tablet containing the antidepressant amitriptyline significantly reduced pain from needle pricks in a small, randomized controlled clinical trial, Medscape Today reports.

The researchers said the formulation could take the place of other topical anesthetics in dentistry, which have an imperfect record. The study, which was published in the January issue of the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, appears to be the first on this anesthetic approach.

To read the full Medscape Today article, click here.