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Ophthaine

Generic name: proparacaine ophthalmic [proe-PAR-a-kane-off-THAL-mik]
Brand names: Alcaine (AK-Taine), Ophthaine (Ophthetic), Parcaine
Drug class: ophthalmic anesthetics

In the U.sophthaine has been stopped. There may be equivalent products if generic versions have been approved by the FDA.

What is Ophthaine?

Ophthaine is used to numb the eyes before an eye exam, surgery, or any other procedure.Ophthaine can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side-effects of Ophthaine

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.

If you experience severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using Ophthaine, tell your carers immediately.

Ophthaine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Slow healing after eye surgery
  • Vision changes
  • A restless, nervous feeling that is followed by depression.

Side effects of opiates include:

  • Mild discomfort or eye redness
  • Watery eyes
  • Increased winking

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Similar/related drugs

Lidocaine ophthalmic, Proparacaine ophthalmic, Balanced Salt Solution, Alcaine, BSS, and Omidria

Warnings

Ophthaine will numb your eyes. Do not touch them until they are completely gone.

Before you take this drug

If you have an allergy to ophthamine, it is best not to use this treatment.

Inform your physician of any of the following issues:

  • Allergies;
  • Heart problems
  • Overactive thyroid gland

Inform your physician immediately if you are pregnant or nursing.

How to take Ophthaine?

Ophthaine can be used in the office of a physician or during surgery.Ophthaine usually only needs to be administered once for an exam or procedure.You may need to receive multiple doses of eye drops before and after the surgery.Ophthaine is prescribed by a healthcare professional.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Ophthaine will be given only when necessary by your healthcare provider. You won't miss a single dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses are unlikely because opiates will be administered by a healthcare provider in a medical environment.

What should be avoided?

Do not touch your eye until all the numbing effects of the medicine have worn off.This medicine can cause blurred or very sensitive vision. You should be careful when driving or doing anything else that requires clear vision.

After Ophthaine treatment, you may need to protect the eyes from bright lights for a few days.

Interaction with other drug

Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect the medicine used on your eyes. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about any medicines you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.