Oxybuprocaine Olikla (Oxybuprocaine Hydrochloride)

Oxybuprocaine Olikla is an ophthalmic local anesthetic used to temporarily relieve discomfort during eye examinations and procedures.

• Corneal abrasion examination: provides rapid surface anesthesia for patient comfort.
• Intra‑ocular pressure measurement: facilitates accurate tonometry by numbing the cornea.
• Minor ocular surgery: enables brief anesthesia for procedures such as foreign body removal.
• Diagnostic fluorescein staining: reduces stinging when fluorescein dye is applied.
• Contact lens fitting: eases discomfort during lens placement and removal.

• Oxybuprocaine hydrochloride blocks voltage‑gated sodium channels on peripheral sensory nerve endings in the cornea and conjunctiva. By preventing sodium influx, it inhibits depolarisation and stops the generation and propagation of nerve impulses, producing a reversible loss of sensation in the ocular surface.

Oxybuprocaine Olikla may cause transient ocular reactions following administration.

Common Side Effects

• Burning sensation: mild, short‑lived discomfort at the application site.
• Stinging or itching: brief irritation after instillation.
• Redness: mild conjunctival hyperaemia.
• Tearing: increased lacrimation.
• Blurred vision: temporary reduction in visual clarity.
• Foreign‑body sensation: feeling of grit or particles.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, swelling, or hives indicating hypersensitivity.
• Corneal epithelial toxicity: persistent epithelial defect or ulceration.
• Severe ocular inflammation: uveitis or keratitis requiring medical attention.
• Vision loss: abrupt loss of vision, though extremely rare.
• Systemic toxicity: dizziness or cardiac arrhythmia after excessive absorption.

When using Oxybuprocaine Olikla, follow standard ophthalmic safety practices.

• Contraindication: avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to oxybuprocaine or other ester‑type anesthetics.
• Frequency: limit applications to the prescribed number to prevent corneal toxicity.
• Contact lens wear: remove lenses before instillation and wait before reinserting.
• Monitoring: observe for signs of allergic reaction or prolonged corneal opacity.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Oxybuprocaine Olikla has a limited interaction profile, but certain agents may affect its safety or efficacy.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Other ocular anesthetics: concurrent use can increase risk of corneal toxicity.
• Preservative‑rich drops: may enhance irritation when combined.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticholinergic eye drops: may reduce tear production, heightening discomfort.
• Systemic sodium channel blockers: theoretical additive effect on nerve conduction.
• Topical steroids: may mask early signs of corneal injury.
• Antihistamine eye drops: could alter ocular surface response.
• Contact lens solutions containing preservatives: may increase irritation.