A slight burn on your hand while doing household chores, a red rash after being bitten by an ant or mosquito when you step outside, or the pain and itching caused by hemorrhoids that some people have... We all experience these things all the time, right? These minor inconveniences can be a hindrance to our daily lives. So, today we are talking about an ointment that can be used to quickly reduce that pain and discomfort at times like these. That is Dibucaine.
Simply put, what is Dibucaine?
Dibucaine is a local anesthetic . Simply put, when it's applied to your skin, it temporarily blocks the nerves in that area, stopping them from sending pain signals to the brain. This reduces or completely eliminates the sensation of pain, itching, and burning in that area.
This is mainly used for:
- For minor irritations, itching and pain on the skin (for example, minor burns, sunburn, insect bites).
- Reduce the pain and itching caused by hemorrhoids.
You may see this in pharmacies under brand names like Nupercainal. But no matter what name it goes by, it contains the same medicine.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
As with any medication, it's important to discuss a few things with your doctor before using this one, especially for your own safety.
When talking to your doctor about this medication, be sure to mention these things:
- If you have an allergy to Dibucaine or any other anesthetic medicine (for example, the medicine used during a tooth extraction).
- If you have allergies to other medicines, foods, preservatives, or dyes .
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
Okay, how exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this, it's essential to know exactly how to use it.
1. For external use only: This is for topical use only . Do not ingest or apply to eyes for any reason.
2. Be careful with your eyes: Be careful not to let the medicine get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water.
3. Apply a thin layer: Clean and dry the affected area and apply a very thin layer . Do not apply too thickly.
4. Use the right amount: Follow the instructions on the package. Do not use more than the amount or frequency recommended by your doctor.
Be especially careful when using on children.
This medicine is not generally approved for use in young children, so it is essential to talk to a pediatrician before using it on your young child.
If you accidentally use too much of this medicine, or if someone drinks it, it is an emergency. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
What to do with a missed dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose .
Are there any problems with other medications?
This ointment generally does not interact with other medications. However, it is best not to apply any other cream, ointment, or medication to the same area of skin as Dibucaine without medical advice.
Things to keep in mind when using the medicine
Pay attention to these things when using this.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If your symptoms (pain, itching) do not improve after using the medicine for a few days, or if they worsen , tell your doctor immediately.
- Signs of infection: If the area where the medicine was applied becomes red, swollen, feels warm, or oozes pus, it could be a sign of infection. If this happens, see a doctor immediately.
- Numb skin can be dangerous: When your skin is numb, you can't feel pain. So be very careful not to cause any injury, cut, or burn to the area. You can still be injured without even realizing it.
This is very important: Never apply this ointment to cuts, abrasions, severe burns, or infected areas. Doing so can cause the body to absorb too much of the medicine, which can cause dangerous side effects that can affect your heart rate and nervous system.
Are there any side effects?
Although most people do not experience serious side effects, it is good to be aware of the possible effects that may occur.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Bleeding from the injection site | If there is more than a small amount of bleeding. |
| Severe skin allergy | If there is severe redness, inflammation, or swelling at the site of application. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Numbness | Numbness in the treated area is normal, but if it lasts for a long time or is uncomfortable, let us know. |
| A slight burning or stinging sensation | A slight burning sensation may occur at the first moment of application. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
How do you store the medicine?
- Keep away from children. This is very important.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat or cold.
- Check the expiration date and discard any expired medication.
Although this article provides a summary of Dibucaine, it is not a complete description. If you have any further questions, please talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Dibucaine is a numbing ointment that temporarily relieves skin irritation, pain, and itching.
- This should only be used for minor skin problems and things like hemorrhoids .
- Never apply to cuts, broken skin, or infected skin.
- Before using the medicine, tell your doctor about your allergies and pregnancy.
- If symptoms worsen or signs of infection appear, seek medical advice immediately.
- If ingested by mistake or overdosed, it is an emergency. Go to the ETU immediately.
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