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Pontocaine HCl

Generic name: tetracaine injectionTET-ra-kane ]
Brand names: Niphanoid, Pontocaine HCl
Drug class: Local injectable anesthetics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 2, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is tetracaine?

Tetracaine is a local anesthetic (numbing medicine). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.

Pontocaine HCl is given as an epidural injection into the spinal column to produce numbness during labor, surgery, or certain medical procedures.

Tetracaine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Tetracaine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregiver right away if you have:

Common side effects of Pontocaine HCl may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You should not receive Pontocaine HCl if you are allergic to Pontocaine HCl or any other type of numbing medicine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not receive this medicine if you are allergic to Pontocaine HCl or any other type of numbing medicine.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Unless you are receiving this medicine during labor and delivery, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

How is tetracaine given?

Tetracaine is given as an injection through a needle placed into an area of your middle or lower back near your spine. You will receive this injection in a hospital setting.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving Pontocaine HCl.

Spinal numbing medicines can have long-lasting effects on certain body processes such as sexual function, bowel or bladder control, and movement or feeling in your legs or feet. Talk with your doctor about these effects.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since tetracaine is given as needed before a surgery or other medical procedure, you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since Pontocaine HCl is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving tetracaine?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect tetracaine?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect tetracaine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Does Pontocaine HCl interact with my other drugs?

Enter other medications to view a detailed interaction report.

More about Pontocaine HCl (tetracaine)

Patient resources

Other brands

Niphanoid

Professional resources

Other formulations

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.