Tetracaine skin gel, solution, or cream

What is this medication?

TETRACAINE (TE truh keyn) is an anesthetic. It is used to relieve the pain and itching of minor sunburns, rashes, or other mild skin irritations.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pontocaine, Viractin

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

•large areas of burned, broken, or damaged skin

•pseudocholinesterase deficiency

•skin infection

•an unusual or allergic reaction to tetracaine, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), other anesthetics, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Apply a thin film to the affected area. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use exactly as directed. Do not use more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not improve within a few days, or if you notice any signs of infection at the site of use.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•difficulty breathing, shortness of breath

•dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness

•nausea, vomiting

•seizures (convulsions)

•slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•burning, stinging, or tenderness not present before use of tetracaine

•skin redness at site of use

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.