Products
Oxybuprocaine eye drops 0.4% (4 mg/ml) have been approved in many countries since 1971. They are commercially available as a monopreparation (Novesin, Cebesin, Oxybuprocaine SDU Faure) and in combination with fluorescein (Fluoresceine-Oxybuprocaine SDU Faure).
Structure and properties
Oxybuprocaine is present in drugs as oxybuprocaine hydrochloride (C17H29ClN2O3, Mr = 344.9) is present. It is a white crystalline powder or colorless crystals that are very soluble in water. Oxybuprocaine is a butoxy derivative of procaine, an ester-type local anesthetic, and a derivative of p-aminobenzoic acid.
Effects
Oxybuprocaine (ATC S01HA02) is locally anesthetic. The effect is rapid, occurring within one minute and lasting approximately 20-30 minutes. Oxybuprocaine has no effect on pupil size. The ester is rapidly hydrolyzed in plasma.
Indications
Oxybuprocaine eye drops are used for surface anesthesia of the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye during diagnostic and surgical procedures, such as removal of foreign bodies and sutures, measurement of intraocular pressure, endoscopy of the lacrimal duct, and cell harvesting. Therapeutically, the drops are applied off-label, for example, in snow blindness (blinding) one-time administration!
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- The drops must not be used repeatedly and for a long time (see under adverse effects).
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Interactions are possible with vasoconstrictors (prolongation of action), sympathomimetics, succinylcholine, sulfonamides, and beta-blockers.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include local reactions such as burning sensation after instillation and hypersensitivity reactions. Repeated use should be avoided at all costs, as it leads to corneal lesions (keratopathies) and inhibits wound healing. In case of absorption and overdose, cardiovascular and central disorders are possible.
