Oxybuprocaine

Oxybuprocaine is the name of a local anesthetic, which is used especially in ophthalmology and otolaryngology. Oxybuprocaine is sold by Novartis under the brand names Novesine or Novesin.

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Where oxybuprocaine is used specifically

• In ophthalmology in order to numb the surface of the eye (the outermost layers of the cornea and conjunctiva) for the following purposes:
  • In order to perform a contact/applanation tonometry.
  • In order to remove small foreign objects from the uppermost layer of the cornea or conjunctiva.
• In otolaryngology for numbing the mucous membranes of the nostrils.

Topical anesthetics in general

Oxybuprocaine like any other topical anesthetic used in the eye (like for example tetracaine, proxymetacaine and proparacaine) can cause irreversible corneal damage and even complete destruction of the cornea when used excessively (excessive use means several times a day during several days or even weeks).

See also

• Topical anesthetic