• Basic Info
• Top Questions

What is this medicine?

COCAINE (KOE kane) is a local anesthetic. It is used to numb areas of the mouth, throat, and nose.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• heart problems
• infection
• seizures
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cocaine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is used in a hospital or clinic. It is given by a health-care professional before surgery or other procedure.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

After use of this medicine, the treated areas will be numb for some time. If your mouth is numb, do not chew gum or food until the numbness wears off. Tell your doctor or health care professional if the numbness does not wear off within a few hours.

If you are scheduled for routine blood or urine testing for possible drug abuse, cocaine may be present for several days after use.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• confused, excitable, nervous, or restless
• fever or chills
• headache
• irregular heartbeat
• nausea, vomiting
• numbness, pain, or tingling
• seizure
• stomach pain
• tremor

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• loss of taste or sense of smell
• runny or stuffy nose

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Last Updated: March 23, 2009