Generic medicine

Proparacaine Hydrochloride: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Proparacaine Hydrochloride is an ester-type topical ophthalmic local anesthetic used by eye care professionals to produce rapid, short-duration numbness of the surface of the eye.

Forms:Ophthalmic Solution

About Proparacaine Hydrochloride

Indications of Proparacaine Hydrochloride

Proparacaine Hydrochloride is an ester-type topical ophthalmic local anesthetic used by eye care professionals to produce rapid, short-duration numbness of the surface of the eye. It is an FDA-approved, established treatment for the following in-office procedures:

  • Tonometry (measurement of intraocular pressure)
  • Gonioscopy (examination of the eye's drainage angle)
  • Removal of corneal or conjunctival foreign bodies
  • Removal of corneal sutures
  • Other short diagnostic or minor surgical procedures on the cornea or conjunctiva requiring brief topical anesthesia

Proparacaine Hydrochloride is intended strictly for short-duration, professionally administered ocular anesthesia. It is not indicated, and must not be used, for at-home or repeated self-treatment of eye pain (see Precautions and Warnings).

Dosage & Administration of Proparacaine Hydrochloride

IndicationAdult Dose
Tonometry / removal of foreign body or sutures1 drop of Proparacaine Hydrochloride instilled in the eye(s) 1-2 times immediately before the procedure
Short corneal/conjunctival procedures1 drop of Proparacaine Hydrochloride every 5-10 minutes for up to 5-7 doses, as directed by the treating clinician

Proparacaine Hydrochloride must be administered by, or under the direct supervision of, a qualified healthcare professional. Inspect the solution before use; it should be clear to slightly straw-colored, and any bottle with darker discoloration or visible precipitate should be discarded.

Side Effects of Proparacaine Hydrochloride

Side effects of Proparacaine Hydrochloride are generally local and transient:

FrequencyEffects
CommonTransient stinging or burning on instillation; transient conjunctival redness
UncommonPunctate keratitis (superficial corneal irritation), foreign-body sensation
RareAllergic contact dermatitis (especially of the fingertips with repeated handling); rare acute allergic reactions
Rare but serious (with misuse)Corneal epithelial defects, persistent corneal opacification, or 'ground-glass' keratitis with prolonged or repeated use (see Precautions and Warnings)

Contraindications of Proparacaine Hydrochloride

Proparacaine Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Proparacaine Hydrochloride, to other ester-type local anesthetics, or to any excipient in the formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Proparacaine Hydrochloride

What is Proparacaine Hydrochloride used for?

Proparacaine Hydrochloride is a topical anesthetic eye drop used by eye care professionals to briefly numb the surface of the eye for procedures such as tonometry (eye pressure testing), gonioscopy, and removal of foreign bodies or corneal sutures.

Can I use Proparacaine Hydrochloride at home for eye pain?

No. Proparacaine Hydrochloride is only for short-term, in-office use administered by a healthcare professional. Repeated or prolonged use, including any at-home use, can cause serious corneal injury and permanent vision loss, and can hide a serious eye problem by masking pain. Never use Proparacaine Hydrochloride to self-treat eye pain.

How long does the numbing effect of Proparacaine Hydrochloride last?

After a drop of Proparacaine Hydrochloride is instilled, numbness typically begins within about 20 seconds and lasts approximately 15-20 minutes.

What should I avoid after receiving Proparacaine Hydrochloride?

Because your eye's protective blink and pain reflex are temporarily reduced after Proparacaine Hydrochloride is given, avoid rubbing or touching the treated eye and avoid letting anything come into contact with it until normal sensation fully returns, to prevent accidental injury.

Is Proparacaine Hydrochloride safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Proparacaine Hydrochloride should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, after your doctor weighs the potential benefits against potential risks to the baby. It is not known whether Proparacaine Hydrochloride passes into breast milk, so caution is advised; consult your physician before use while breastfeeding.

What are the common side effects of Proparacaine Hydrochloride?

The most common effects are brief stinging or burning when the drop is instilled and temporary redness of the eye. Serious effects such as corneal damage are rare and are mainly associated with repeated or prolonged misuse rather than normal single-dose professional use.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

DoctorBlogArticles