Which type of drugs are DMSO and lidocaine categorized under when used in veterinary medicine?

DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) and lidocaine, when used in veterinary medicine, are categorized as topical agents due to their application and mode of action. Topical agents are substances applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes, where they exert their therapeutic effects locally. DMSO is often used for its ability to penetrate biological membranes and carry other drugs with it, making it a unique vehicle in topical formulations. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort at the site of application.

Lidocaine, on the other hand, is a local anesthetic widely used for its numbing effects. When applied topically, lidocaine provides pain relief in localized areas, making it effective for various procedures or conditions requiring temporary anesthesia.

While analgesics also provide pain relief, they typically refer to a broader class of medications, mainly those used systemically rather than directly on the skin. Antimicrobials focus on fighting infections, and antipyretics are used to reduce fever, neither of which accurately describes the primary use of DMSO and lidocaine in the context provided. Thus, classifying them as topical agents captures their primary route of administration and therapeutic intent in veterinary practice.