Like all medications, Alcaine can cause side effects, though not everyone gets them. As it is a short-acting anesthetic administered by a professional, side effects are typically temporary and resolve quickly.
Common Side Effects:
- A temporary stinging, burning, or itching sensation in the eye upon application
- Redness of the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye)
- Increased tear production
Less Common or Rare Side Effects:
- In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction (corneal opacification, swelling, vision changes) may occur.
- Systemic effects are rare but can include dizziness or fainting.
- Prolonged use (which is not recommended) can lead to corneal damage.
Your doctor will monitor for these effects during and after the procedure. Inform them immediately if you feel any significant discomfort.
Alcaine (Proparacaine) is a topical anesthetic indicated for ophthalmic procedures that require temporary numbing of the eye surface. It is used in a clinical setting to prevent pain during:
- Tonometry (measuring intraocular pressure)
- Gonioscopy (examining the angle where the iris meets the cornea)
- Removal of foreign bodies from the cornea or conjunctiva
- Suture removal from the surface of the eye
- Short corneal and conjunctival surgical procedures, including cataract extraction