Dibucaine

(DYE byoo kane)

Dosage Forms

• This medicine is available as an ointment.

Pharmacologic Category

• Local Anesthetic

Is it safe for my child to take this medicine?

• Not if your child has an allergy to dibucaine or any other part of this medicine.
• Be sure to let healthcare provider know if your child has any allergies or reactions to medicine, food preservatives, or dyes. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected your child. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.

Why does my child need this medicine?

• This medicine is used to treat symptoms of hemorrhoids or rectal irritation.
• This medicine is used to relieve the pain caused by sunburn and skin irritation.

How does this medicine work?

• Dibucaine numbs the nerves in the area applied.

How is this medicine given?

• Do not give by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of your child's mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
• Wash hands before and after use.
• Clean affected area before use. Make sure to dry well.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and rub in gently.

How long does this medicine take to work?

• Your child may start feeling better soon after starting this medicine.

What do I do if my child misses a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)

• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your child's regular schedule.
• Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.
• Many times this medicine is used on an as needed basis.

What safety measures should I take while my child is using this medicine?

• Check your child's medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
• Use caution on skin where a large area is involved or where there are open wounds.
• Do not put coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) over the area unless told to do so by healthcare provider.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Skin irritation.

What should I monitor?

• Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

• If any of this information causes you to be concerned, any of the common side effects occur, or if your child's symptoms do not improve after taking this medicine.
• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.
• If your child shows signs of a life-threatening reaction, call healthcare provider or emergency department immediately. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or if your child exhibits any other unusual behavior.
• If your child has difficulty breathing.
• If your child has a fast heartbeat.
• If your child has severe skin irritation.
• If your child develops a rash.
• No improvement in condition or if you believe your child's condition is worse.

How should I store and/or dispose of this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.
• Protect from light.

General statements

• If your child has a life-threatening allergy, he/she should wear allergy identification at all times.
• This medicine is available without a prescription.
• This medicine should be thrown out when your child no longer needs it or if the medicine becomes outdated.
• Most medicines can be thrown away in household trash after mixing with coffee grounds or kitty litter and sealing in a plastic bag.
• Do not share your child's medicine with others and do not give anyone else's medicine to your child.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Many medications interact with other medications. Keep a list of all your child's medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to your child's healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or in Canada to Health Canada's Canada Vigilance Program at 1-866-234-2345.
• Talk with your child's healthcare provider before giving him/her any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
• Medicine can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Follow directions given by healthcare provider.

Copyright © 1978- Lexi-Comp Inc., The Children's Hospital, Denver, CO., and Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This information is protected under US and international copyright law. Unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.

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