Minims Tetracaine Chlorhydrate Bausch + Lomb Ireland Limited (Tetracaine Hydrochloride)

Minims Tetracaine Chlorhydrate, a topical ophthalmic anesthetic, acts on peripheral nerve sodium channels to provide local anesthesia.

• Diagnostic eye procedures: produces rapid anesthesia to facilitate examinations and imaging.
• Foreign body removal: numbs the ocular surface to allow safe extraction of corneal or conjunctival debris.
• Minor eye surgery: supplies pre‑operative anesthesia for procedures such as cataract extraction or laser treatment.

• Tetracaine Hydrochloride reversibly blocks voltage‑gated sodium channels in peripheral nerve membranes of the ocular surface, inhibiting the initiation and propagation of nerve impulses. This interruption of sodium influx prevents depolarization, resulting in loss of sensation and temporary anesthesia of the eye.

Tetracaine Hydrochloride may cause ocular irritation and, in rare cases, more severe complications.

Common Side Effects

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Transient redness of the eye
• Temporary blurred vision
• Increased tearing

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Corneal epithelial damage
• Allergic reaction with swelling
• Severe ocular inflammation

Before using Minims Tetracaine Chlorhydrate, consider the following precautions:

• Allergy assessment: confirm no hypersensitivity to tetracaine or related ester anesthetics.
• Indication limitation: use only for short‑term ocular anesthesia during diagnostic or minor surgical procedures.
• Corneal integrity: avoid application on severely damaged or infected cornea.
• Patient monitoring: observe for excessive irritation, visual changes, or systemic signs during and after use.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in original packaging, protected from light and moisture.

Tetracaine Hydrochloride can interact with other ophthalmic agents and systemic drugs.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use of other ophthalmic local anesthetics: may increase risk of corneal toxicity.
• Systemic sodium channel blockers (e.g., quinidine, procainamide): may potentiate cardiac conduction effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Beta‑blocker eye drops: may enhance systemic absorption of tetracaine.
• Anticholinergic eye drops: could affect pupil response when combined.
• Topical corticosteroids: may mask early signs of ocular irritation.