Benoxinate hydrochloride

Benoxinate Hydrochloride is a type of local anesthetic used primarily in ophthalmology. It is often used in diagnostic procedures involving the eye, such as tonometry, gonioscopy, and other similar procedures.

Pharmacology

Benoxinate hydrochloride works by blocking sodium channels on the nerve cells in the eye. This prevents the nerves from transmitting pain signals to the brain, thereby numbing the eye. The onset of action is usually within one minute, and the duration of action is typically 15 minutes.

Uses

Benoxinate hydrochloride is used in a variety of ophthalmic procedures. It is commonly used in tonometry, a procedure used to measure the pressure inside the eye. It is also used in gonioscopy, a procedure used to examine the angle where the iris meets the cornea. Other uses include foreign body and suture removal, and for fitting of hard contact lenses.

Side Effects

Like all medications, benoxinate hydrochloride can cause side effects. These may include temporary stinging, burning, or irritation in the eye. More serious side effects are rare, but can include allergic reactions, eye pain, changes in vision, or continued eye redness or irritation.

Contraindications

Benoxinate hydrochloride should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to local anesthetics of the ester type. It should also not be used in patients with defective corneal epithelium, or in patients with known sensitivity to the product.

See Also

• Local anesthetic
• Ophthalmology
• Tonometry
• Gonioscopy