THE MERCK MANUAL: The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy
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Dibucaine Drug Information Provided by Lexi-Comp

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Pronunciation

(DYE byoo kane)

Generic Available (U.S.)

Yes

Brand Names: U.S.

  • Nupercainal® [OTC]

Pharmacologic Category

  • Local Anesthetic

Pharmacologic Category Synonyms

  • Anesthetic, Local

Use: Labeled Indications

Fast, temporary relief of pain and itching due to hemorrhoids, minor burns

Use: Dental

Amide derivative local anesthetic for minor skin conditions

Breast-Feeding Considerations

No data reported; however, topical administration is probably compatible.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to amide-type anesthetics, ophthalmic use

Warnings/Precautions

Other warnings/precautions:

• Topical application: When topical anesthetics are used prior to cosmetic or medical procedures, the lowest amount of anesthetic necessary for pain relief should be applied. High systemic levels and toxic effects (eg, methhemoglobinemia, irregular heart beats, respiratory depression, seizures, death) have been reported in patients who (without supervision of a trained professional) have applied topical anesthetics in large amounts (or to large areas of the skin), left these products on for prolonged periods of time, or have used wraps/dressings to cover the skin following application.

Adverse Reactions

1% to 10%:

Dermatologic: Angioedema, contact dermatitis

Local: Burning

Metabolism/Transport Effects

None known.

Drug Interactions

There are no known significant interactions.

Storage

Darkens on light exposure.

Mechanism of Action

Local anesthetics bind selectively to the intracellular surface of sodium channels to block influx of sodium into the axon. As a result, depolarization necessary for action potential propagation and subsequent nerve function is prevented. The block at the sodium channel is reversible. When drug diffuses away from the axon, sodium channel function is restored and nerve propagation returns.

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics

Onset of action: ~15 minutes

Duration: 2-4 hours

Absorption: Poor through intact skin; well absorbed through mucous membranes and excoriated skin

Dosage

Children and Adults: Topical: Apply gently to the affected areas; no more than 30 g for adults or 7.5 g for children should be used in any 24-hour period

Dental Usual Dosing

Local pain (local anesthetic): Children and Adults: Topical: Apply gently to the affected areas; no more than 30 g for adults or 7.5 g for children should be used in any 24-hour period

Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

No significant effects or complications reported

Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions

No information available to require special precautions

Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status

None reported

Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment

None reported

Dosage Forms

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Ointment, topical: 1% [10 mg/g] (30 g)

Nupercainal®: 1% [10 mg/g] (30 g, 60 g) [contains sodium bisulfite]

Pricing: U.S. (www.drugstore.com)

Ointment (Dibucaine)

1% (30): $12.99

International Brand Names

  • Faktu (EC, PE)
  • Nupercainal (BR, GR, TR)

Lexi-Comp.com

Last full review/revision January 2012

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