Altacaine
Altacaine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Altacaine is a brand name. Its generic name is Tetracaine.
Introduction
Altacaine is a local anesthetic medication used to cause numbness in a specific area of the body. It belongs to the class of medications known as amino amides, and works by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses.Uses For
Altacaine is mainly used to reduce pain and provide local anesthesia prior to certain medical procedures, such as inserting a catheter, performing a dental procedure, treating sores, and minor surgeries. It is also used as an injectable anesthetic, in topical form as a cream, or as drops to numb the eye prior to certain eye procedures.Mechanism of Action
Altacaine works by blocking the nerves from sending signals to the brain and therefore causing numbness in a particular area. It does this by blocking the action of sodium channels, which is required for generation and propagation of action potentials. It stops the nerves from responding to painful stimuli and that in turn prevents the sensation of pain from being transmitted to the brain.How Long Does It Take to Work
Altacaine typically begins to work within 5 to 10 minutes of being administered. The effect of the medication usually lasts for up to an hour depending on the specific case.Absorption
When used as a topical cream or ointment, the absorption of tetracaine through the skin is low. However, when administerd as an injection, it is nearly completely absorbed.Route Of Elimination
Most of the absorbed tetracaine is eliminated from the body through urine, as the drug is mainly metabolized in the liver.Dosage
Altacaine is available as injectable solution, topical cream or ointment. Injectable solution: The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is 0.5 - 2.5 mg/lb (1 - 5 mg/kg) given as a single dose. This solution is usually administered intramuscularly. The maximum total dose that can be given at a single time is 500 mg. Topical Cream/Ointment: The recommended dosage for topical cream or ointment is to apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area every 4 hours, as needed.Administration
Altacaine can be administered intramuscularly, topically as a cream or ointment, and as eye drops.Side Effect
The most common side effects associated with the use of tetracaine include nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, and mild local reaction at the site of injection.Toxicity
The acute toxicity of tetracaine is low. The symptoms of overdose are similar to those of the side effects. In the case of an overdose, medical attention should be sought immediately.Precaution
Altacaine should not be taken by those with a known allergy to the medication or its components. Altacaine should also be avoided by those with porphyria, severe liver or kidney diseases, and those who are pregnant or nursing.Interaction
Altacaine can interact with other medications, such as MAO inhibitors, cimetidine, certain heart medications, and several other medications. These interactions can increase the risk of side effects or decrease the effectiveness of the medication. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor of all the medications being taken prior to taking tetracaine.Disease Interaction
Altacaine can potentially interact with certain medical conditions, such as porphyria, liver or kidney disease, and heart disease. Patients with these conditions should avoid taking tetracaine, or use the medication with caution.Drug Interaction
Altacaine can interact with certain medications, such as MAO inhibitors, cimetidine, certain heart medications, and several other medications. Drugs that can interact with tetracaine can either increase its risk of side effects or decrease its effectiveness. Therefore, it is important to inform the doctor of all the medications being taken prior to taking tetracaine.Food Interactions
There are no known food interactions with tetracaine.Pregnancy Use
Altacaine should be avoided by pregnant women as it may cause harm to the developing fetus.Lactation Use
Altacaine is not recommended for use by nursing mothers as it may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.Acute Overdose
The symptoms of overdose with tetracaine are similar to those of the side effects. An overdose should be treated as a medical emergency and medical attention should be sought immediately.Contraindication
Altacaine is contraindicated for use in those with a known allergy to the medication or its components. Altacaine should also be avoided by those with porphyria, severe liver or kidney diseases, and those who are pregnant or nursing.Use Direction
Altacaine should be used as directed by a healthcare professional and should not be used more than necessary. The dosage and length of treatment may vary depending on the individual case.Storage Condition
Altacaine should be stored at room temperature in a dry, dark place.Volume of Distribution
Altacaine is rapidly absorbed after intravenous or intramuscular administration. Its volume of distribution is 1.3 – 2.4 L/kg.Half Life
The elimination half-life of tetracaine is 18.5 hours.Clearance
The clearance of tetracaine is 4.2 to 5.1 mL/min/kg.Here you find in details version of Altacaine
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Altacaine
What is Altacaine?
Altacaine is a local anesthetic drug used to numb areas of the body. It is commonly used to numb the surface of the skin, mucous membranes, and other sensitive tissues.
How is Altacaine administered?
Altacaine is usually administered as a topical application directly to the affected area.
Who should NOT use Altacaine?
Altacaine should not be used by those who are allergic to any of its ingredients or other local anesthetic drugs. It should also not be used by pregnant or lactating women.
What are the possible side effects of Altacaine?
Possible side effects of Altacaine include skin irritation, itching, burning, redness, or swelling. Other less common side effects may include an irregular heartbeat, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
How long does Altacaine last?
The effects of Altacaine typically last for about 1 to 2 hours.
Can Altacaine relieve pain?
Yes, Altacaine is used as a local anesthetic to temporarily relieve pain by numbing the affected area.
Can Altacaine be used for dental procedures?
Yes, Altacaine is often used in dental procedures to numb the affected area and provide temporary pain relief.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Altacaine?
Altacaine is usually administered as a topical application. If you miss a dose, simply apply it as soon as you remember.
What is the proper dosage of Altacaine?
The proper dosage of Altacaine depends on the reason for its use, the area to be treated, and other factors. Always speak with your doctor to get the correct dosage for your particular situation.
Is there an age limit for taking Altacaine?
Altacaine is not generally recommended for children under the age of 2 years. Speak with your doctor to determine if Altacaine is safe for you or your child.
Does Altacaine require a prescription?
Yes, Altacaine requires a prescription from a doctor or dentist before it can be used.
Are there any potential drug interactions with Altacaine?
Yes, there are potential drug interactions with Altacaine and other drugs. Always speak with your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medications while taking Altacaine.
Can Altacaine be used for eye procedures?
Yes, Altacaine can be used for eye procedures such as corneal abrasion or cataract removal.
Is Altacaine safe for long-term use?
No, Altacaine should only be used for temporary pain relief and should not be used for long-term use.
What other uses are there for Altacaine?
Altacaine is also used in dermatology procedures such as laser therapy, wart removal, and skin tag removal.
Are there any conditions that may prevent the use of Altacaine?
Yes, certain medical conditions may contraindicate the use of Altacaine, such as severe heart disease, a weakened immune system, or an allergy to local anesthetic drugs.
What should I tell my doctor before taking Altacaine?
It is important to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, any allergies you may have, and any existing medical conditions. This information will help your doctor determine if Altacaine is right for you.
Is Altacaine safe to use during pregnancy or lactation?
No, Altacaine should not be used during pregnancy or lactation.
Can Altacaine be used on wounds?
Yes, Altacaine can be used to numb the area around a wound and provide temporary pain relief.
Does Altacaine cause drowsiness?
No, Altacaine does not usually cause drowsiness.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Altacaine?
If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling, seek medical attention immediately.
Is there any danger of Altacaine overdose?
Yes, an overdose of Altacaine can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Seek medical attention if you or anyone else has taken too much Altacaine.
What should I avoid while taking Altacaine?
You should avoid using other topical medications or creams while taking Altacaine, as they may interact and cause adverse reactions.
Can Altacaine be taken with other medications?
Yes, Altacaine can be taken with other medications, but only as directed by your doctor.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of Altacaine?
If you forget to take a dose of Altacaine, simply apply it as soon as you remember.
Can I take Altacaine while breastfeeding?
No, Altacaine should not be taken while breastfeeding.
What are the contraindications for taking Altacaine?
The contraindications for taking Altacaine include severe heart disease, a weakened immune system, and allergy to local anesthetic drugs.
What is the most common side effect of Altacaine?
The most common side effect of Altacaine is skin irritation, itching, burning, redness, or swelling.
Can Altacaine be used for cosmetic procedures?
Yes, Altacaine is often used for cosmetic procedures such as laser hair removal.
What should I do if I experience any side effects from Altacaine?
If you experience any side effects from Altacaine, such as skin irritation, itching, burning, redness, or swelling, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can Altacaine be used for other procedures?
Yes, Altacaine can be used for other procedures such as spinal tap, endoscopy, and cataract removal.
What is the best way to store Altacaine?
Altacaine should be stored in a tightly closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Can Altacaine be taken orally?
No, Altacaine should not be taken orally. It is only meant to be taken as a topical application.
Can Altacaine be used in conjunction with other local anesthetics?
Yes, Altacaine can be used in conjunction with other local anesthetics. However, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist prior to using any additional medications with Altacaine.
Can Altacaine be used for minor medical procedures?
Yes, Altacaine can be used for minor medical procedures such as suturing, wart removals, and abscess drainage.
What is the chemical structure of Altacaine?
The chemical structure of Altacaine is 2,3-dimethoxybenzocaine.
How long does it take for Altacaine to take effect?
Altacaine usually begins to take effect within a few minutes of application.
What should I do if Altacaine does not seem to be working?
If Altacaine does not seem to be working, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
What is the half-life of Altacaine?
The half-life of Altacaine is approximately 35 minutes.
Can Altacaine be used for nerve blocks?
Yes, Altacaine can be used for nerve blocks to numb a particular area of the body.
Can Altacaine be used for anesthetic injection?
Yes, Altacaine can be used in anesthetic injection to numb a particular area and provide temporary pain relief.
What is the mechanism of action for Altacaine?
Altacaine works by blocking nerve signals and preventing the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
How long does it take for Altacaine to wear off?
The effects of Altacaine usually last for about 1 to 2 hours.
Can Altacaine be used on children?
Altacaine is generally not recommended for children under the age of 2 years. Speak with your doctor to determine if Altacaine is safe for your child.
Can Altacaine be used in the ear?
Yes, Altacaine can be used in the ear to numb the area and provide temporary pain relief.