Benoxinate / fluorescein
Anesthetic · Rx
Trade namesFluress, Flurox, Fluorox
Drug classAnesthetic + dye combination (diagnostic)
StrengthBenoxinate (oxybuprocaine) 0.4% + fluorescein 0.25%
AvailabilityRx
Mechanism of actionCombines a rapid ester anesthetic with fluorescein dye in one drop for applanation tonometry.
Indication / reason for useGoldmann applanation tonometry; other procedures needing simultaneous anesthesia and staining (Seidel test, foreign-body assessment).
Usual adult dosing1-2 drops before tonometry.
PreservativeChlorobutanol / povidone
Contact lensesRemove lenses; the fluorescein will stain soft lenses, keep them out for at least an hour (see fluorescein entry).
Common / important adverse effectsStinging, punctate keratopathy, transient yellow staining of the tear film and skin.
Contraindications & cautionsHome use; ester-anesthetic hypersensitivity.
Pregnancy / lactationSingle diagnostic use low risk.
Practice notesSolution is unstable once contaminated, dispose promptly; store refrigerated.
Chair-side reference only. Dosing, contraindications and pregnancy guidance here are not exhaustive. Confirm against the current prescribing information and the patient’s full history before prescribing or advising.