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Parcaine

Generic name: proparacaine ophthalmic

Brand names: Alcaine, AK-Taine, Ocu-Caine, Ophthaine, Ophthetic, Parcaine

Used for surgery
Last updated November 3, 2026 0 views
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What is Parcaine?

Parcaine (for the eyes) is a numbing medicine that helps prepare the eyes for an eye examination, surgery, or other procedures.

Parcaine may also be used for other purposes that are not mentioned in this medication guide.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

How should I use Parcaine?

Parcaine is most often used only in a doctor's office or surgical setting.

Parcaine is usually given in only one dose for an eye exam or procedure.

For eye surgery, you may receive several doses before and during the surgery.

A healthcare provider will give you Parcaine.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Warnings

Avoid touching your eye until the numbing effects of Parcaine have completely worn off.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with Parcaine if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • allergies;
  • heart problems; or
  • an overactive thyroid.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Parcaine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you experience severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your eyes after using Parcaine eyedrops.

Parcaine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

  • slow healing after eye surgery;
  • changes in your vision; or
  • a restless or nervous feeling followed by depression.

Common side effects of Parcaine may include:

  • redness or mild discomfort in the eyes;
  • watery eyes; or
  • increased winking.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Parcaine is used as needed and given by a healthcare provider, you will not miss a dose.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What happens if I overdose?

Since Parcaine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to happen.

Avoid touching your eye until the numbing effects of this medicine have completely worn off.

This medicine may cause blurred vision or make your eyes very sensitive to light. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires clear vision.

You may need to protect your eyes from bright light for a short time after being treated with Parcaine.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect Parcaine?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. However, many drugs can interact with each other. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.