Novocaine(procaine)is an injectable anesthetic that prevents pain by numbing a small, localized area.
Generally speaking, the word “novocaine” is now used to describe various types oflocalanesthesia.
“Novocain” is a trade name for the generic drug procaine.
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Uses
Novocaine causes numbness in a localized area for a brief amount of time.
It is used for procedures that don’t require a longer-lasting anesthetic.
It’s also used when people are allergic to amide-based drugs (a group of local anesthetic compounds).
How Long Does Novacaine Last?
Novocaine’s numbing effects usually start within minutes.
Its pain-relieving ability lasts about 3060 minutes.
Because novocaine is fast-acting and doesn’t last very long, it’s often used for quick procedures.
A novocaine/epinephrine mixture delays absorption and can last for up to 90 minutes.
Side Effects
Novocaine is generally well-tolerated and comes few adverse side effects.
The most common adverse reactions occur at the injection site.
For example, some people experience an adrenaline rush after being given novocaine.
This is most likely triggered by the epinephrine additive and is not an allergic reaction.
Most adverse reactions to local anesthesia occur within the first two hours after the injection.
If you experience any of these symptoms for longer than four to six hours, contact a healthcare provider.
In emergencies, call 911.
Risks
Severe allergic reactions to local anesthetics like novocaine are extremely rare.
Notably, a preservative (methylparaben) used in amide-based drugs is metabolized as PABA and may cause allergies.
People who are allergic to ester local anesthetics should be treated with an amide-bang out local anesthetic without preservatives.
These cases require immediate medical attention.
Always exercise extreme caution when eating or drinking if your mouth is still numb.
Lidocaineand other amide-bang out local anesthetics are common substitutes for novocaine, which is ester-based.
Summary
“Novocaine” is a broadly used term referring to any key in of local anesthetic.
Technically speaking, novocaine is the same as procaine, which is an ester local anesthetic.
Today, lidocaine is more commonly used than novocaine.
Most of novocaine’s adverse side effects occur at the injection site and are mild.
Novocaine is a helpful tool that can reduce pain during uncomfortable or even frightening procedures.
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