Tetracaine
Tetracaine
Local anaesthetic drug
Tetracaine, also known as amethocaine, is an ester local anesthetic used to numb the eyes, nose, or throat.[2] It may also be applied to the skin before starting an intravenous (injection) to decrease pain from the procedure.[3] Typically it is applied as a liquid to the area.[2] Onset of effects when used in the eyes is within 30 seconds and last for less than 15 minutes.[2]
Common side effects include a brief period of burning at the site of use.[2] Allergic reactions may uncommonly occur.[4] Long-term use is generally not recommended as it may slow healing of the eye.[2] It is unclear if use during pregnancy is safe for the baby.[2] Tetracaine is in the ester-type local anesthetic family of medications.[4] It works by blocking the sending of nerve impulses.[2]
Tetracaine was patented in 1930 and came into medical use in 1941.[5] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines[6]