Anesthetic (numbing) eye drops

effect

By inhibiting the sodium channel on the nerve tracts, there is a reduced action potential and thus a reduced transmission of pain.

application areas

Numbing eye drops are always used in ophthalmology when the patient complains of pain-causing diseases. Corneal inflammation or damage to the corneal surface can be very painful. A long, unprotected stay at high altitudes or in the sun or during welding work can cause very severe pain (Photoelectrica keratoconjunctivitis). In this case, the patient may only administer the pain relieving eye drops once and not take them home with them, as they will have to repeat the pain medication independently with the after the effect has subsided eye drop perform and thus significantly extend the recovery time. In daily ophthalmological practice, numbing eye drops are also used in the Intraocular pressure measurement for use in which a small plastic vessel is used to apply pressure to the cornea. In this case, anesthetic eye drops not only reduce the pain stimulus, but also the corneal reflex, which would not make this type of examination possible. The following eye drops are used: Oxybuprocaine (Conjucain, Novesine), Oxybuprocaine + fluorescein (Thilorbine), Proxymethacaine (Proparacaine POS). All drugs are to be applied by 1 to 2 drops to the affected eye. The effect occurs within approx. 30 seconds.

Side effects

Long-term use can damage the surface of the cornea and cause allergic reactions. The patient must also be told that the protective corneal reflex is reduced some time after the drop is administered and that everyday activities such as e.g. Rubbing eyes can lead to injury.

Contraindications

Known sensitivity and allergic reaction on the eye against the drug administered.