proparacaine hydrochloride /prōper″əkān/ , a rapid-acting topical anesthetic of the amide family. Also called proxymetacaine. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used for tonometry, gonioscopy, removal of foreign objects from the eye, and other minor ophthalmological procedures and preoperatively for major eye surgery. One drop gives 15 minutes of optic anesthesia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Proparacaine hydrochloride is not administered to individuals with cardiac disease, hyperthyroidism, or multiple allergies. People given the drug should be warned not to touch their eyes until the anesthetic has worn off. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Adverse optic effects may occur with proparacaine, but systemic reactions are rare. Prolonged use may injure the eye.
