Monofree (Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride)

Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride is used as a topical ocular anesthetic for procedures involving the cornea and conjunctiva.

• Diagnostic ocular examinations (e.g., tonometry, slit‑lamp): Provides rapid surface anesthesia to enable accurate measurement and observation without patient discomfort.
• Minor ocular surgeries (e.g., foreign‑body removal, cataract extraction): Allows brief anesthesia of the ocular surface to facilitate the procedure.
• Laser ophthalmic procedures (e.g., laser trabeculoplasty): Reduces pain during laser application on the cornea or conjunctiva.

• Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride produces local anesthesia by reversibly blocking voltage‑gated sodium channels in peripheral nerve membranes of the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. This inhibition prevents the initiation and propagation of nerve impulses, thereby eliminating sensation in the treated ocular surface while preserving deeper ocular structures. The effect is localized to the site of application and typically lasts for several minutes, after which normal nerve function returns as the drug diffuses away and is metabolized by ocular tissues.

Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride may cause ocular reactions ranging from mild irritation to rare serious complications.

Common Side Effects

• Burning or stinging sensation at the application site.
• Transient redness of the conjunctiva.
• Increased tearing or lacrimation.
• Temporary blurred vision.
• Mild allergic conjunctivitis.
• Mild corneal epithelial irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Corneal ulceration or persistent epithelial defect.
• Severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis).
• Keratitis or infectious keratitis.
• Significant vision loss.
• Persistent ocular inflammation.

When using Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride, consider the following precautions.

• Assess allergy history: Verify the patient has no known hypersensitivity to ester‑type anesthetics.
• Evaluate corneal integrity: Avoid use on compromised or ulcerated corneas.
• Monitor contact lens wearers: Remove lenses before administration and allow adequate interval before reinsertion.
• Use with caution in pediatric patients: Adjust application technique as needed.
• Avoid concurrent use with multiple ocular anesthetics: Reduces risk of additive toxicity.
• Store at ambient temperature: Keep below 25 °C, in the original container, protected from moisture and light.

Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride can interact with other ophthalmic agents.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use with other topical ocular anesthetics: Increases risk of corneal toxicity.
• Simultaneous administration with high‑concentration antiseptics (e.g., povidone‑iodine): May enhance epithelial irritation.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Co‑administration with contact lens solutions: May affect drug absorption.
• Use with beta‑blocker eye drops: Monitor intra‑ocular pressure changes.
• Combination with ocular anti‑inflammatory drops: Observe for delayed wound healing.