Name a commonly used short-acting local anesthetic.

Lidocaine is classified as a commonly used short-acting local anesthetic due to its rapid onset and relatively brief duration of action. It is often the anesthetic of choice for minor surgical procedures, dental work, and various other applications because it effectively blocks nerve conduction, providing pain relief without prolonged residual effects.

Lidocaine has a half-life of approximately 90 to 120 minutes when given as a local anesthetic, which contributes to its short-acting properties. Its consistent efficacy and safety profile make it a staple in clinical practice. In contrast, other anesthetics listed, such as bupivacaine and tetracaine, are known for their long-acting properties, making them suitable for different clinical scenarios but not for quick procedures where short duration is desired. Chloroprocaine, while also a short-acting agent, is less commonly used compared to lidocaine in routine practice. Thus, lidocaine stands out as the most widely recognized and utilized short-acting local anesthetic.