Tetracaine (On the skin)
TE-tra-kane
Used to numb certain areas of the body before tests or procedures. This medicine is a topical anesthetic.
Drug classes
Anesthetic, Local (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Tetracaine is used in different parts of the body to cause numbness or loss of feeling in some patients before having a medical test or procedure.
Tetracaine belongs to a group of medicines known as topical local anesthetics. It deadens the nerve endings in the skin. This medicine does not cause unconsciousness as general anesthetics do when used for surgery.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Gel/Jelly, Liquid
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
Do not apply this medicine to a large area of skin, or to broken or irritated skin.
Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tetracaine, or certain other types of numbing medicine. You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aminobenzoic acid.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tell your doctor about all other medical problems you have before receiving this medicine.
It is very important to check with your doctor first about using this medicine before having medical tests to examine your breasts or other medical procedures. Using this medicine before having a medical test for your breasts or before having certain other medical procedures may increase your risk of serious side effects.
If this medicine is used in your mouth or throat, do not try to eat or drink anything until feeling has returned to normal.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blurred vision.
Difficulty breathing.
Lightheadedness or fainting.
Shortness of breath, chest pain, cold sweat, or bluish-colored skin.
Slow or irregular heartbeat.
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Anxiety, dizziness, or drowsiness.
Mild skin rash or itching.
Ringing in your ears.
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Cepacol Viractin, Pontocaine, Pontocaine HCl, Supracaine
There may be other brand names for this medicine.