Tetracaine Hcl

Generic Name: tetracaine hcl

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Tetracaine Hcl

DESCRIPTION Tetracaine hydrochloride is 2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl p-(butylamino)benzoate monohydrochloride. It is a white crystalline, odorless powder that is readily soluble in water, physiologic saline solution, and dextrose solution. It has the following structural formula: Tetracaine hydrochloride is a local anesthetic of the ester-linkage type, related to procaine. 1% Solution : A sterile, isotonic, isobaric solution.

Overview

DESCRIPTION Tetracaine hydrochloride is 2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl p-(butylamino)benzoate monohydrochloride. It is a white crystalline, odorless powder that is readily soluble in water, physiologic saline solution, and dextrose solution. It has the following structural formula: Tetracaine hydrochloride is a local anesthetic of the ester-linkage type, related to procaine. 1% Solution : A sterile, isotonic, isobaric solution.

Uses

INDICATIONS AND USAGE: Tetracaine hydrochloride is indicated for the production of spinal anesthesia for procedures requiring two to three hours.

Dosage

Dosage and Administration As with all anesthetics, the dosage varies and depends upon the area to be anesthetized, the number of neuronal segments to be blocked, individual tolerance, and the technique of anesthesia. The lowest dosage needed to provide effective anesthesia should be administered. For specific techniques and procedures, refer to standard textbooks.

Side Effects

ADVERSE REACTIONS Systemic adverse reactions to tetracaine hydrochloride are characteristic of those associated with other local anesthetics and can involve the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Systemic reactions usually result from high plasma levels due to excessive dosage, rapid adsorption, or inadvertent intravascular injection. A small number of reactions to tetracaine hydrochloride may result from hypersensitivity, idiosyncrasy or diminished tolerance to normal dosage. Central nervous system effects are characterized by excitation or depression. The first manifestation may be nervousness, dizziness, blurred vision, or tremors, followed by drowsiness, convulsions, unconsciousness and possibly respiratory and cardiac arrest.

Warnings

WARNINGS RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT AND DRUGS SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE WHENEVER ANY LOCAL ANESTHETIC DRUG IS USED. Large doses of local anesthetics should not be used in patients with heartblock. Reactions resulting in fatality have occurred on rare occasions with the use of local anesthetics, even in the absence of a history of hypersensitivity. Methemoglobinemia Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Spinal anesthesia with tetracaine hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to tetracaine hydrochloride or to drugs of a similar chemical configuration (ester-type local anesthetics), or aminobenzoic acid or its derivatives; and in patients for whom spinal anesthesia as a technique is contraindicated.

Storage

HOW SUPPLIED: 1% isotonic isobaric solution: 2 mL vials, box of 10. NDC 54288-127-10 Storage: Store under refrigeration. Protect vials from light.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tetracaine Hcl used for?

INDICATIONS AND USAGE: Tetracaine hydrochloride is indicated for the production of spinal anesthesia for procedures requiring two to three hours.

What are the side effects of Tetracaine Hcl?

ADVERSE REACTIONS Systemic adverse reactions to tetracaine hydrochloride are characteristic of those associated with other local anesthetics and can involve the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Systemic reactions usually result from high plasma levels due to excessive dosage, rapid adsorption, or inadvertent intravascular injection. A small number of reactions to tetracaine hydrochloride may result from hypersensitivity, idiosyncrasy or diminished tolerance to normal dosage. Central nervous system effects are characterized by excitation or depression. The first manifestation may be nervousness, dizziness, blurred vision, or tremors, followed by drowsiness, convulsions, unconsciousness and possibly respiratory and cardiac arrest.

What are the important warnings for Tetracaine Hcl?

WARNINGS RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT AND DRUGS SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE WHENEVER ANY LOCAL ANESTHETIC DRUG IS USED. Large doses of local anesthetics should not be used in patients with heartblock. Reactions resulting in fatality have occurred on rare occasions with the use of local anesthetics, even in the absence of a history of hypersensitivity. Methemoglobinemia Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Spinal anesthesia with tetracaine hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to tetracaine hydrochloride or to drugs of a similar chemical configuration (ester-type local anesthetics), or aminobenzoic acid or its derivatives; and in patients for whom spinal anesthesia as a technique is contraindicated.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.