Tetracaine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic drops, s... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Tetracaine Hydrochloride Ophthalmic drops, solution

Brand name(s):

AK-T-Caine, Altacaine, TetraVisc, Tetracaine Hydrochloride, Ophthalmic

What is this medicine?

TETRACAINE (TE truh keyn) is an anesthetic. The eye drops are used to numb the eye and surrounding area before certain procedures.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• infection
• wear contact lenses
• an unusual or allergic reaction to tetracaine, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), other anesthetics, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is applied to the eye. It is applied only by a health-care professional in a hospital, clinic, or doctor's office.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not touch, wipe or rub your eyes after application of this medicine; you could hurt the eye without feeling it. Do not try and put contact lenses in your eyes until the effect of this medicine has worn off. Follow your doctor's directions.

You should not use this medicine yourself except under the direct supervision of your doctor. This medicine should not be used for prolonged periods of time. If your condition does not improve, call your health care professional.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• eye pain
• skin rash, itching (hives)
• sensitivity to light
• swelling of the eye or eyelid

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• burning, stinging, redness, or irritation in the eye
• watering of the eyes

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Do not use the medicine if it is cloudy or if crystals form in it.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.