Pontocaine

Generic name: Tetracaine Topical
Drug class: Topical anesthetics

Usage of Pontocaine

Tetracaine is a local anesthetic (numbing medicine). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.

Pontocaine (for use on the skin) is used to reduce pain or discomfort caused by mild skin irritations such as sunburn or minor rash.

Pontocaine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Pontocaine side effects

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

Pontocaine may cause serious side effects. Stop using Pontocaine and call your doctor at once if you have:

severe burning, stinging, swelling, or other irritation of the treated skin;

oozing, blistering, or any signs of infection;

dizziness, drowsiness, or feeling like you might pass out;

nausea, vomiting; or

slow, fast, or irregular heartbeats.

Common side effects of Pontocaine may include:

mild stinging, burning, or itching where the medicine is applied;

skin tenderness or redness; or

numbness in places where the medicine is accidentally applied.

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.

Before taking Pontocaine

An overdose of numbing medicine can cause fatal side effects if too much of the medicine is absorbed through your skin and into your blood.

Fatal overdoses have occurred when numbing medicines were used without the advice of a medical doctor (such as during a cosmetic procedure like laser hair removal).

Be aware that many cosmetic procedures are performed without a medical doctor present.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to tetracaine or similar numbing medicines such as lidocaine, benzocaine, or prilocaine.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

a skin infection;

a skin injury or open sores in the area where this medicine will be applied; or

any condition that makes you sensitive to anesthesia.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you apply Pontocaine to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.

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Warnings

An overdose of numbing medicine can cause fatal side effects if too much of the medicine is absorbed through your skin and into your blood.

Your body may absorb more of Pontocaine if you use too much, if you apply it over large skin areas, or if you apply heat, bandages, or plastic wrap to treated skin areas. Skin that is cut or irritated may also absorb more topical medication than healthy skin.

Use the smallest amount of this medicine needed to numb the skin or relieve pain.

What other drugs will affect Pontocaine

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Disclaimer

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