What it is used for
- Anaesthesia of the eye surface for pressure measurement or other diagnostic examinations
- Anaesthesia for superficial foreign-body removal or a minor procedure selected by an eye professional
- Ocular anaesthesia with fluorescein dye for corneal examination in combination products
How it is used
- A doctor or trained nurse places it in the eye only when needed for the procedure
- Remove contact lenses and do not replace them until anaesthesia has worn off and the professional permits it
- Do not touch or rub the numb eye; protect it from dust and injury until sensation and normal vision return
- A single-dose container is used immediately after opening and the professional discards any remainder
- Do not take the bottle home or repeat the drop to relieve eye pain
Possible side effects
- Temporary stinging or burning on instillation
- Temporary blurred vision or eye redness
- Eye pain, irritation or allergic inflammation
- Corneal erosion, inflammation or clouding with misuse
- Rare severe allergy
Who should not use it
- Allergy to benoxinate, a related local anaesthetic or any drop ingredient
- Self-treatment or repeated use for eye pain outside a professionally supervised procedure
Before and while using it
- Prolonged or repeated use can cause corneal ulceration, scarring, perforation and loss of vision
- A numb eye can be scratched, contaminated or burned without warning; do not rub or touch it
- Do not drive or use machinery until normal vision has fully returned
- Tell the professional about eye infection, injury or recent surgery and any allergy to local anaesthetics
- Swallowing the drops or excessive use can cause systemic toxicity and needs urgent help
- Seek urgent assessment if pain, redness or blurred vision persists after anaesthesia wears off
Medicine interactions
- It is incompatible with silver nitrate, mercury salts and alkaline substances
- Avoid ophthalmic products containing chlorhexidine acetate with it
- Tell the eye professional about every other eye drop; the professional arranges their use during the procedure
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Use during pregnancy only if the doctor considers the procedure essential and benefit outweighs risk
- Use while breastfeeding only when necessary and directed by the doctor
How to store it
- Clinical staff store the product as the leaflet directs and do not freeze it; a single-dose container is used immediately after opening
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.