Prilocaine
Citanest (prilocaine) is a brand-name local anesthetic used to induce numbness and relieve pain during minor surgical and dental procedures. It belongs to the amide-type local anesthetic class and works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in a specific area of the body. The medication is administered via injection by healthcare professionals and is commonly used for procedures requiring localized pain control.
A local anesthetic injection used to numb areas during minor surgical and dental procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 151518
- Generic
- Citanest
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Used for local and regional anesthesia during minor surgical procedures, dental work (such as extractions and fillings), and other medical interventions requiring temporary numbness in a specific body area.
Functions as a local anesthetic by blocking sodium channels in nerve fibers, which prevents the generation and transmission of nerve impulses, resulting in temporary loss of sensation in the targeted area.
Should only be administered by qualified healthcare professionals. Contraindicated in patients with methemoglobinemia or known hypersensitivity to amide-type anesthetics. May cause systemic toxicity if absorbed rapidly or given in high doses. Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, anemia, or respiratory impairment. Pregnancy category B; excreted in breast milk.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy