Tetracaine Side Effects

Tetracaine is the name of a type of eye drop. It is used on patients during ophthalmic procedures in order to numb any possible resulting pain. It functions as anesthesia. As with any type of medication, there are some possible negative side effects that could result from using Tetracaine during eye procedures. However, it is known for being easily tolerated by the majority of patients.

Common Side Effects

• There are a few very common side effects that are associated with Tetracaine drops. These side effects are generally considered to be minor, as they tend to go away quickly and on their own as the eyes get used to the drops. These side effects are stinging, burning, and redness, and are usually temporary. Should the effects subsist or get worse, consult your doctor.

Serious Side Effects

• In rare instances, serious side effects can occur as a result of Tetracaine ophthalmic drops. With potentially harmful side effects, it is crucial to immediately seek emergency medical attention. Allergic reactions are considered to be severe effects of the medication. Some signs of allergic reaction to Tetracaine include having a hard time breathing, chest tightness, breaking out into hives, skin rash, and swelling of the tongue, lips, mouth, and face. Some extremely rare side effects of these eye drops are confusion, abnormal anxiety, and tremors, immediately followed by extreme sleepiness.

Caution

• It is vital to exercise caution when considering the use of Tetracaine during your ophthalmic procedure. It is important to inform your physician of your medical history, particularly of any allergies you might have, high thyroid issues, liver or heart disease, and myasthenia gravis. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also be very caution regarding these eye drops, as the medication could be excreted into human breast milk (which could lead to permanent damage to the baby).

Warning

• Although Tetracaine drops are not particularly known for causing drowsiness, this is still a possibility. As a result, people who use the medication should use caution when engaging in anything that requires alertness and vigilance (such as driving a vehicle or operating heavy machinery).

Extended Use

• Tetracaine is generally not intended for use for a prolonged period of time. Prolonged use could lead to various problems, such as corneal erosions, particularly slow corneal healing.