Proparacaine ophthalmic

Proparacaine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is a numbing medicine that helps get the eyes ready for an eye examination, surgery, or another procedure.

Proparacaine ophthalmic may also be used for reasons that are not mentioned in this medication guide.

Proparacaine ophthalmic is usually used only in a doctor's office or during surgery.

Proparacaine ophthalmic is typically given as a single dose for an eye exam or procedure.

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

A healthcare provider will administer proparacaine ophthalmic to you.

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

You should not use proparacaine ophthalmic if you are allergic to it.

Inform your doctor if you have ever had:

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

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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 have severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your eyes after receiving proparacaine ophthalmic eyedrops.

Proparacaine ophthalmic 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 proparacaine ophthalmic may include:

• eye redness or mild discomfort;
• 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.

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

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

Do not touch 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 proparacaine ophthalmic.

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 all your healthcare providers about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.