Proparacaine
Proparacaine is a topical ophthalmic anesthetic used to temporarily numb the eye during diagnostic and surgical procedures. It is primarily utilized by eye care professionals such as ophthalmologists and optometrists to facilitate comfortable examination and minor surgical interventions.
Proparacaine is a topical eye anesthetic that temporarily numbs the eye for examinations and minor procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- S01HA04
- RxNorm
- 34905
- Generic
- Proparacaine
- Class
- atc-s01
- Brands
- Alcaine, Flucaine, Fluoracaine
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- ophthalmic
- Forms
- 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.
Proparacaine is used for topical anesthesia of the eye during various diagnostic procedures (such as tonometry, gonioscopy, foreign body removal), minor surgical procedures, and as part of preparation for ophthalmic surgery including cataract surgery.
Proparacaine is an ester-type local anesthetic that works by blocking sodium channels in nerve fibers, thereby inhibiting the generation and conduction of nerve impulses. This results in temporary loss of sensation and motor function in the treated area.
Proparacaine is for ophthalmic use only and should be administered by qualified healthcare professionals. It is not intended for long-term use due to risk of corneal epithelial toxicity. Repeated or prolonged use may delay wound healing and cause keratitis. Patients should be advised not to touch or rub the eye while it is numb to prevent injury.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy