Chloroprocaine
Chloroprocaine is a short-acting ester-type local anesthetic used to induce regional anesthesia during surgical and obstetric procedures. It works by blocking nerve conduction in a localized area, making it particularly suitable for procedures requiring rapid onset and brief anesthesia. This medication is commonly administered via epidural, spinal, or peripheral nerve block techniques.
A short-acting local anesthetic used for regional anesthesia in surgeries and childbirth.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N01BA04
- RxNorm
- 20859
- Generic
- Chloroprocaine
- Class
- atc-n01
- Brands
- Clorotekal, Nesacaine, Iheezo
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- ophthalmic
- Forms
- injection, gel, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only when benefits outweigh risks; avoid prolonged use
routine prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only when benefits outweigh risks; avoid prolonged exposure
routine prenatal and fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
compatible with breastfeeding; minimal milk transfer expected
no specific monitoring required
geriatric
elderlyreduce dose based on patient condition
use lower doses due to increased sensitivity; monitor for cardiovascular depression
close cardiovascular and neurological monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
pediatricsweight-based dosing required
use in children only by experienced practitioners; verify correct concentration
cardiovascular and respiratory monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
renal impairment mild moderateuse with caution; no major dose reduction for single dose
monitor for accumulation with repeated dosing; use lowest effective dose
monitor renal function and signs of toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
hepatic impairment mild moderatereduce dose or increase dosing interval
metabolized by plasma cholinesterase; impaired metabolism may prolong effect
monitor for signs of toxicity and extended duration
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
alcohol_users
chronic alcohol useuse with caution; consider reduced doses
may have increased risk of CNS toxicity; avoid high doses
monitor for signs of CNS toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Chemical classification of Chloroprocaine
Common uses
Primary therapeutic applications
First FDA approval
Nesacaine was the first FDA-approved brand
Mechanism of action
Pharmacodynamic properties
Used for epidural anesthesia during labor and cesarean delivery, as well as spinal anesthesia, peripheral nerve blocks, and infiltration anesthesia for minor surgical procedures requiring brief, rapid-onset anesthesia.
Functions as a sodium channel blocker, inhibiting the influx of sodium ions into nerve cells to prevent the generation and conduction of nerve impulses, thereby numbing the targeted area.
Contains an ester linkage and may cause allergic reactions in patients sensitive to PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid). Should only be administered by qualified healthcare professionals trained in regional anesthesia techniques. Use with caution in patients with certain cardiovascular conditions.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy