In Vivo Assessment of Percutaneous Anesthetic Patch (4 % Tetracaine Cream) II / 대한마취과학회지

ABSTRACT

We have evaluated the onset time and frequency of allergic reactions after topical application of tetracaine cream. Tetracaine cream was prepared on the antecubital area of forearm in 21 voluteers and antiinflammatory cream was applied also on same side forearm under an impermeable occlusive patch dressing. The mean anesthetic onset time of tetracaine site was 24.90+/-7.47 minutes and significant allergic reactions were not found. The ideal percutaneous local anesthetic formulation should have a comparatively low-concetration of drugs and provide a rapid onset of action combined with a deep and relatively prolonged anesthesia of the skin surface, in addition to underlying tissue. Although EMLA cream has been available, it requires a minimum application period of 1 hour using 2.5 g of preparation in combination with an occlusive dressing. The result of this study indicate that 4% tetracaine in carbomer base and in addition with sodium bicarbonate (Imeq/g) provided more rapid onset and prolonged anesthesia without any significant allergic reactions. So, we advise this 4% tetracaine cream for epicutaneous procedures (tattooing, removal of warts or senile ketatitis), venipuncture and venous cannulations, especially in children.