Minims Amethocaine (Tetracaine) Hydrochloride (Tetracaine (Amethocaine) Hydrochloride)

Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information

Prescription Required

Quick Facts

Generic Name

tetracaine (amethocaine) hydrochloride

Drug Class

local anaesthetics

Used For

numbing pain in the eye during short-term medical procedures

How Taken

administered as eye drops by a healthcare professional

What Is Minims Amethocaine (Tetracaine) Hydrochloride Used For?

Minims Amethocaine (Tetracaine) Hydrochloride is a local anaesthetic used to numb or block pain in the eye during brief medical procedures.

Primary Uses

It is primarily used for procedures such as measuring eye pressure, inserting contact lenses, removing foreign bodies from the eye, and other minor eye operations.

How It Works

Tetracaine works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it is applied, providing temporary numbness.

Good to know: Minims Amethocaine is not addictive.

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How to Take Minims Amethocaine (Tetracaine) Hydrochloride

This medication is administered as eye drops by a healthcare provider.

Dosage Instructions

The usual dosage is one drop instilled into the eye before starting a procedure. The frequency of administration depends on the specific procedure being performed.

Important: Do not attempt to self-administer this medication; it is for use by healthcare professionals only.

Available Tablet Strengths

0.5% w/v

0.5% w/v Tablet Clear, Single-dose unit

1% w/v

1% w/v Tablet Clear, Single-dose unit

Side Effects

Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:

Stinging or burning sensation in the eye
Blurred or decreased vision
Watery eyes
Pain
Swelling
Redness
Itching
Eye fatigue
Sensitivity to light
Feeling of having something in the eye

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Grey appearance of the cornea
Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling of the face or lips, rash, or hives

Important Warnings

There are specific warnings to consider before using this medication.

Who Should Not Take Minims Amethocaine (Tetracaine) Hydrochloride

Do not use if you are allergic to tetracaine, any other local anaesthetic, or any of the ingredients in this medication. It should not be used in premature infants or if you are being treated with sulphonamides.

Medical Conditions to Discuss

Consult your doctor if you have allergies to other medications, any medical conditions, or if you are taking other medicines.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Elderly Patients With Dementia: Use with caution in elderly patients.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Minims Amethocaine.

Sulphonamides
Anticholinesterases
Suxamethonium
Special dyes used for eye examinations

Alcohol & Driving

Be cautious when driving or operating machinery after using this medication.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while using this medication.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you are sure how Minims Amethocaine affects you.

Storage

Store Minims Amethocaine in a refrigerator at 2-8°C. Do not freeze or expose to strong light.

Overdose Information

If too much Minims Amethocaine is used, rinse the eye with warm water or saline for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation or pain persists.

Frequently Asked Questions

The numbing effect typically occurs shortly after administration.

This medication is for eye use only and does not interact with food.

No, Minims Amethocaine is not considered addictive.

This medication is used for short-term procedures, so stopping is not applicable.