Proparacaine Ophthalmic

What is proparacaine ophthalmic?

Proparacaine ophthalmic is a topical anesthetic (numbing agent) used in the eyes before diagnostic procedures and as an adjunctive anesthetic for eye surgery in cats, dogs, and other animals. 

It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet proparacaine ophthalmic?

Proparacaine ophthalmic comes in a liquid drop form.

• Drops are given topically, directly into the eye. 
• Wash your hands before giving your pet this medication.
• Do not allow the dropper tip to touch your animal’s eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• If you are administering more than one eye medication to your pet, wait 5 to 10 minutes between each medication. Give eye drops before eye ointments.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication will take effect within minutes. 

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Proparacaine ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:

• Mild pain, irritation, or redness in or around the eye

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving proparacaine ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
• Signs of keratitis (decreased tear production, corneal ulcers, pain, blepharospasm)

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This quick-acting medication should stop working within 15 minutes to 1 hour.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE proparacaine ophthalmic in:

• Animals who are allergic to any component

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Animals who are being treated for dry eye or keratitis

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for the ophthalmic form of this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects. 
• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store proparacaine ophthalmic?

• Store at controlled room temperature or in the refrigerator (depending on product label).
• Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze.
• Discard if the color changes or the solution becomes cloudy.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.