oxybuprocaine hydrochloride at a glance
Medicine class
Topical ocular local anaesthetic
Usual role
Numbs the eye for examinations, pressure measurement and minor procedures
Presentation
Preservative-free, single-use sterile eye drops
What is oxybuprocaine hydrochloride used for?
It is used by an eye-care professional for topical anaesthesia of the eye surface, including:
Eye examinations
Measuring pressure inside the eye
Fitting contact lenses
Removing a superficial foreign body or stitches
Minor procedures on the eye surface or eyelid
How does oxybuprocaine hydrochloride work?
It temporarily blocks nerve impulses from the eye surface, reducing sensation during an examination or procedure. The effect is reversible.
How to take oxybuprocaine hydrochloride
This product is normally administered by a doctor or eye specialist. Avoid touching or rubbing the numb eye, and protect it from dust and contamination until sensation returns. Open the single-use unit immediately before use and discard it afterwards, even if solution remains. Do not drive or use hazardous machinery until vision is normal.
Remove contact lenses before administration and do not replace them until the anaesthetic effect has completely worn off.
Do not let the dropper tip touch the eye, eyelids or another surface.
If directed by the clinician, gently closing the eye and pressing its inner corner can reduce drainage through the tear duct.
oxybuprocaine hydrochloride side effects
Common or expected effects
- Temporary stinging or irritation when the drops are applied
- Temporary blurred vision
Get urgent medical advice
- Allergic reaction, which can rarely be severe
- Eye pain, marked irritation or persistent visual disturbance
- Corneal damage, erosion, scarring or perforation, particularly with uncontrolled or prolonged use
oxybuprocaine hydrochloride in pregnancy
It should not be used during pregnancy unless a doctor considers it essential. Tell the eye-care professional if you are pregnant or could be pregnant before administration.
oxybuprocaine hydrochloride while breastfeeding
It should not be used while breastfeeding unless a doctor considers it essential. Discuss breastfeeding with the eye-care professional before administration.
oxybuprocaine hydrochloride interactions
No medicine interactions are stated in the selected product information. Tell the clinician about other eye preparations and medicines being used.
Common questions about oxybuprocaine hydrochloride
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can it be used for eye pain at home?
It is intended for temporary anaesthesia during eye examinations or procedures and is normally administered by an eye-care professional. Repeated or prolonged use can seriously damage the cornea.
Can it blur vision?
Yes. Temporary blurred vision can occur; do not drive or use hazardous machinery until vision is normal.
Can I rub my eye afterwards?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.