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Overview: Dibucaine is primarily used to relieve pain or itching from hemorrhoids or other skin problems in the rectal area. It works by temporarily blocking nerve signals that cause you to feel pain. The most common side effects are a temporary burning or stinging sensation where it is applied.

Uses

What is dibucaine used for?

Dibucaine is commonly used to relieve pain and itching from hemorrhoids or other skin problems in the rectal area. 

Dibucaine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does dibucaine work (mechanism of action)?

Dibucaine works by temporarily blocking nerve signals that cause you to feel pain. 

How is dibucaine supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Dibucaine Hemorrhoid and Topical Analgesic
  • Dibucaine Topical Anesthetic

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 1% ointment

How should I store dibucaine?

Dibucaine should be stored between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place. 

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of dibucaine?

The most common side effect of dibucaine is a temporary burning or stinging sensation where it is applied. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of dibucaine that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of dibucaine?

While less common, the most serious side effects of dibucaine are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Dibucaine may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using dibucaine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use dibucaine?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use dibucaine.

  • Dibucaine
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product you are using

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific dibucaine product you are using.

What should I know about dibucaine before using it?

Keep dibucaine out of the reach of children.

Do not use dibucaine inside your rectum. It is only for use on the outside of your body. 

Do not use dibucaine in or near your eyes. 

Follow the instructions on the product you have and make sure you understand how to use it properly. If you have any questions, talk to your health care provider.

Wash your hands well after using dibucaine.

If your symptoms worsen or do not get better within seven days, or if you have rectal bleeding, contact your health care provider right away. 

What should I tell my health care provider before using dibucaine?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if dibucaine is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how dibucaine could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if dibucaine passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does dibucaine interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between dibucaine and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect dibucaine.

Does dibucaine interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between dibucaine and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much dibucaine?

If you or someone else has used too much dibucaine, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of dibucaine?

Dibucaine is meant to be used only when needed. Use it as your health care provider recommends. Do not use double or extra doses.