Procaine Hcl

Drug Details

Procaine hydrochloride, commonly known as Novocain, is a local anesthetic introduced in 1905 as a safer alternative to cocaine for numbing specific areas during medical procedures. It works by blocking sodium channels in nerve cells, preventing the transmission of pain signals. Procaine is typically administered by injection for procedures such as dental work, minor surgeries, and nerve blocks. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience side effects like allergic reactions, dizziness, or, in rare cases, more severe responses. Due to its short duration of action, procaine has been largely replaced by longer-acting anesthetics like lidocaine in many medical settings.