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Tetracaine Hydrochloride is a potent local anesthetic commonly utilized in various compounded formulations to provide effective pain relief and numbing.
Tetracaine hydrochloride is a local anesthetic used to provide temporary numbness or loss of sensation in a specific area. As an amino-ester local anesthetic, it works by blocking sodium channels needed for nerve impulse conduction.[1][2] Its main clinical uses are topical ophthalmic anesthesia for brief eye procedures, spinal anesthesia, and topical application, combined with lidocaine, for dermatologic procedures.[1] FDA-approved tetracaine 0.5% ophthalmic solution is indicated for procedures requiring a rapid and short-acting topical ophthalmic anesthetic, with maximum effect within 10 to 20 seconds and efficacy lasting 10 to 20 minutes.[2]
Tetracaine is among the more potent local anesthetics, and its protein binding permits a relative duration of action of up to 200 minutes.[1]
When prescribing tetracaine hydrochloride, healthcare professionals should consider its metabolism and potential adverse effects. Tetracaine is metabolized primarily by plasma pseudocholinesterase to an alcohol and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).[1] Adverse effects include allergic reactions (particularly related to PABA), systemic toxicity with central nervous system and cardiovascular effects, and methemoglobinemia.[1] Prolonged use or abuse of ophthalmic tetracaine may lead to corneal epithelial toxicity and permanent corneal damage.[2]
Bayview compounds tetracaine hydrochloride preparations on a prescriber's order.
Compounded at Bayview
Patient guides for the preparations we make most often. Each one is compounded to order and requires a prescription.
For prescribers
Every preparation in our formulary that contains this ingredient. Strength, base and dose form are set by the prescription.
Other salt forms of this molecule, and ingredients commonly compounded alongside it.
This page describes an active pharmaceutical ingredient, not a finished drug product. Bayview Pharmacy compounds preparations containing it only on a prescriber's order for an individual patient.
Compounded preparations are not FDA-approved, and the FDA has not evaluated them for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality. Nothing on this page is a claim that any preparation is effective for any condition.
A valid prescription is required. Availability depends on Bayview's licensure in your state. This page is general information, not medical advice — discuss your situation with a licensed healthcare provider.
Our pharmacists work with prescribers to build preparations around a patient's dose, form and tolerances. Ask us what is possible with this ingredient.
