Tetracaine (INN) and its salts
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Tetracaine (inn) And Its Salts is a cosmetic ingredient. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.
Tetracaine (amethocaine) is a potent ester-type local anesthetic approximately 5-8 times more potent than procaine. EU CLP classification includes H301 (toxic if swallowed), H317 (skin sensitization), and H351 (carcinogen suspected). The EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex III restricts tetracaine and its salts at ≥0.1% in cosmetic products. Its high potency and potential for systemic absorption raise concerns about methemoglobinemia and CNS/cardiovascular toxicity at elevated doses.
Known concerns
- Potent local anesthetic
- Skin sensitization H317
- Methemoglobinemia risk
- Acute toxicity H301
- Systemic absorption concern
- Restricted to ≤0.1% in EU cosmetics
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.