GENERIC NAME: PROPARACAINE - OPHTHALMIC (pro-PAIR-uh-cane)

BRAND NAME(S): Alcaine, Ophthetic

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Proparacaine is used in the eye as an anesthetic to numb the pain that may occur during eye procedures (e.g., surgery).

HOW TO USE: Place this medication in the eye(s) usually just before the procedure; or use as directed by your doctor. It may be necessary to repeat a dose every 5 to 10 minutes but prolonged use is not recommended. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops. Then tilt your head back, gaze upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over the eye and instill the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least five minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments, to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. This medication solution should be clear to light yellow in color. If it is discolored (darker), do not use the solution.

SIDE EFFECTS: Redness, burning, or stinging of the eye(s) may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: eye pain, eye swelling, vision changes. Tell your doctor immediately if dryness or cracking of the skin on the fingertips occurs. This may be a sign of a skin allergy (e.g., allergic contact dermatitis). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.