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What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving mepivacaine (Carbocaine, Carbocaine HCl, Polocaine, Polocaine-MPF)?

You should not receive mepivacaine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any type of numbing medicine.

Before receiving mepivacaine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• low or high blood pressure;
• asthma or a sulfite allergy;
• a history of heart disease or stroke;
• heart block or coronary artery disease;
• a heart rhythm disorder; or
• a thyroid disorder.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special precautions to safely receive mepivacaine.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Before you receive mepivacaine, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether mepivacaine passes into breast or if it could harm a nursing baby. Before you receive mepivacaine, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is mepivacaine given (Carbocaine, Carbocaine HCl, Polocaine, Polocaine-MPF)?

Mepivacaine is given as an injection placed into an area of your lower back near your spine. You will receive this injection in a hospital or surgical setting.

When used for a dental procedure, mepivacaine is given as an injection that is usually placed into the gum area inside your mouth. You will receive this injection in a dentist's office or oral surgical setting.

Spinal numbing medications can have long-lasting or permanent effects on certain body processes such as sexual function, bowel or bladder control, and movement or feeling in your legs or feet. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk of nerve damage from mepivacaine.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs may be watched closely while you are receiving mepivacaine.

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