Tetracaine Opth Soln

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General Drug Information and Indications

Topical ophthalmic local anesthetic for corneal anesthesia during ophthalmic examination. Ester-type local anesthetic (tetracaine HCl 0.5% ophthalmic). Mechanism: reversibly blocks voltage-gated sodium channels in sensory nerve endings → prevents corneal/conjunctival pain signal transmission. Potent topical anesthetic; onset <30 sec; duration 10–25 min. Inhibits corneal epithelial healing — diagnostic use only. Key information Topical ophthalmic anesthetic. Do NOT send patient home with topical anesthetic — impairs corneal healing. For diagnostic use only. Refrigerate.

How to Give this Medication

Ophthalmic solution: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. 1–2 drops; onset 20–30 sec. For diagnostic purposes only — do not dispense for owner use. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

Corneal epithelial toxicity and healing delay (repeated use). Transient stinging upon instillation. Allergic blepharoconjunctivitis (ester-class — higher allergy rate). CNS/cardiovascular toxicity if large amounts absorbed (rare with ophthalmic use).

Precautions

For animals DIAGNOSTIC USE ONLY — do not dispense for owner-administered analgesia. Inhibits corneal wound healing with repeated use. Short duration (10–20 min). For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Ophthalmic local anesthetic — avoid human eye contact (causes corneal anesthesia). Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian if excessive product was instilled. For topical ophthalmic use — minimal systemic absorption expected.

Tetracaine Opth Soln dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
TETRACAINE OPTH SOLN 0.5%—Solution1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)