Oxybuprocaine

Oxybuprocaine (also known as benoxinate) is a local anesthetic that is commonly used in ophthalmology. It is a derivative of procaine, a type of anesthetic that was first synthesized in the early 20th century. Oxybuprocaine is primarily used for surface anesthesia in the eye, and is often used during procedures such as tonometry, gonioscopy, and foreign body removal.

History

Oxybuprocaine was first synthesized in the 1950s as a more potent alternative to procaine. It was quickly adopted in ophthalmology due to its rapid onset of action and its relatively short duration of effect.

Pharmacology

Oxybuprocaine works by blocking sodium channels in the nerve cells, preventing the propagation of nerve impulses and thus causing numbness in the area where it is applied. It is a relatively short-acting anesthetic, with effects typically lasting for 15 to 30 minutes.

Uses

Oxybuprocaine is primarily used in ophthalmology for procedures that require surface anesthesia of the eye. These include:

• Tonometry: This is a test used to measure the pressure inside the eye, which can be a key indicator of conditions such as glaucoma.
• Gonioscopy: This is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the drainage angle of the eye, which can help diagnose and manage various forms of glaucoma.
• Foreign body removal: Oxybuprocaine can be used to numb the eye before the removal of foreign bodies.

Side Effects

Like all medications, oxybuprocaine can cause side effects. These are generally mild and may include:

• Temporary blurred vision
• Mild stinging or burning sensation in the eye
• Allergic reactions are rare but can occur

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe side effects such as swelling, rash, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

See Also

• Procaine
• Local anesthetic
• Ophthalmology

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