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Carbocaine

Generic: Mepivacaine Hydrochloride

Rx only
Local anesthetic✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Carbocaine is a medication used to numb specific areas of the body during dental procedures, helping to provide local anesthesia. It works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it is injected, preventing you from feeling pain. The medication is usually given as an injection, with a typical starting dose of one cartridge, which contains either 34 mg or 51 mg, and the maximum dose for adults is 400 mg, depending on body weight. It's important to know that Carbocaine should not be used if you have a known allergy to amide-type local anesthetics. Additionally, if you have heart problems or conditions like high blood pressure, you should be cautious, especially if Carbocaine contains a vasoconstrictor, which can affect your heart.
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Uses

  • Local anesthesia for dental procedures in adults.
  • Local anesthesia for dental procedures in pediatric patients.
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Dosage

Dose varies based on area and technique.
Average dose for upper or lower jaw is 1 cartridge (1.7 mL).. 5.3 cartridges may be needed for full oral cavity anesthesia.
Maximum dose is 3 mg per pound of body weight.
Total dose should not exceed 400 mg for adults.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects

Common

Nervousnessdizzinessblurred visionor tremorsDrowsinessconvulsionsunconsciousnessand possible respiratory arrestPersistent numbness in lipstongueand oral tissuesCyanosis of skinnail bedsand lips (methemoglobinemia)

Serious

Allergic reactions like skin rashes or swelling
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Resuscitative equipment must be available during use.
  • Fatal reactions can occur even without prior allergies.
  • Use cautiously in patients with heart disease or hypertension.
  • Contains potassium bisulfite, which may cause allergic reactions.
  • Monitor for methemoglobinemia, especially in vulnerable patients.
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Drug interactions

  • Tricyclic antidepressantsmay cause severe hypertensionCaution
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitorsmay cause severe hypertensionCaution
  • Ergot-type oxytocic drugsmay cause severe hypertensionCaution
  • Phenothiazinesmay reduce Epinephrine's effectCaution
  • Other local anestheticsincreased risk of methemoglobinemia.Monitor

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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).