TETRACAINE (AMETHOCAINE)

Short-acting local anaesthetic to prevent pain during minor surgical procedures on the eyes.

Anaesthesia lasts for about 15 minutes.

Dosage Forms

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Eye drops

0.5%
1%

Uses

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  • Local anaesthesia of the cornea and conjunctiva

Dose and Duration

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Anaesthesia

Adult and child: Apply 1 drop to the eye.

Contra-indications

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  • Pre-term neonates
  • Hypersensitivity to tetracaine
  • Eye inflammation
  • Eye infection

Side Effects

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  • Local irritation (burning, stinging, redness)
  • Temporary disruptive effect on corneal epithelium

Pregnancy

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  • Can be used.

Breast-feeding

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  • Can be used.

⚠️ Caution

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  • Avoid prolonged use as it can cause severe keratitis, permanent corneal opacification, scarring and delayed corneal healing.
  • Protect eye from dust and bacterial contamination until sensation is fully restored.