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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM › VASOPROTECTIVES › AGENTS FOR TREATMENT OF HEMORRHOIDS AND ANAL FISSURES FOR TOPICAL USE › Local anesthetics
tetracaine
C05AD02
Forms & Strengths
- 0.5% solution for injection
- 1% solution for spinal anesthesia
- 2% gel for topical use
Adult Dosing
- 5-20 mg for spinal anesthesia
- 0.5-2 mL of 0.5% solution for caudal anesthesia
- 2-5 mL of 0.25-0.5% solution for epidural anesthesia
Pediatric Dosing
- 1-2 mg/kg for spinal anesthesia
- 0.5-1 mL of 0.5% solution for caudal anesthesia in children > 6 months
- use with caution in pediatric patients due to risk of systemic toxicity
Indications
- spinal anesthesia for surgical procedures
- caudal anesthesia for surgical procedures
- epidural anesthesia for surgical procedures
- topical anesthesia for minor surgical procedures
Mechanism of Action
- blocks sodium channels in nerve cells
- prevents depolarization of nerve cells
- produces localized numbness and loss of sensation
Contraindications
- hypersensitivity to tetracaine or other ester local anesthetics
- infection at the injection site
- severe spinal deformity or other conditions that may affect spinal anatomy
Adverse Reactions
- hypotension
- bradycardia
- respiratory depression
- nausea and vomiting
- allergic reactions
Drug Interactions
- increased risk of hypotension with alpha-adrenergic blocking agents
- increased risk of CNS toxicity with other local anesthetics
- may interact with MAOIs and tricyclic antidepressants
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use