Tetracaine

Tetracaine is a local anaesthetic of the ester type with the molecular formula C15H24N2O2. It is used as a surface anaesthetic of mucous membranes - for example, for minor operations in the mouth or nose. The effect lasts for several hours.

Tetracaine, like all Na+ blockers, leads to a blockade of the voltage-dependent Na channels. The influx of sodium into the nerve fibre is inhibited, the formation of an action potential is prevented. The substance is about 10 times more effective than procaine. In the case of larger mucous membrane injuries, the absorption can take place very quickly with the danger of overdose and poisoning.

After being applied to the nasal mucosa, tetracaine reaches the rami alveolarares (nervus alveolaris superior anterior and nervus alveolaris superior medius), which run underneath it and sensitively treat the teeth of the upper jaw. In a fixed combination with the vasoconstrictive Oxymetazoline, it can be used as a nasal spray for lighter dental procedures for local anaesthesia in the upper jaw.