The Basics
What is Procaine?
local anesthesia
Brand names for Procaine
Novocain, Mericaine
How Procaine is classified
Anesthetics – Local
Procaine During Pregnancy
Procaine pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Procaine while pregnant
N/A
Taking Procaine While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Procaine?
No information is available on the use of procaine during breastfeeding. Based on the low excretion of other local anesthetics into breastmilk and the short half-life of procaine, a single dose of procaine during breastfeeding, such as for a dental procedure, is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant. However, an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Note that many people mistakenly equate the terms Novocaine (procaine) and local anesthesia. The exact identity of any local anesthetic should be verified rather than assuming that patients are receiving procaine.
Maternal / infant drug levels
No information is available on the use of procaine during breastfeeding. Based on the low excretion of other local anesthetics into breastmilk and the short half-life of procaine, a single dose of procaine during breastfeeding, such as for a dental procedure, is unlikely to adversely affect the breastfed infant. However, an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Note that many people mistakenly equate the terms Novocaine (procaine) and local anesthesia. The exact identity of any local anesthetic should be verified rather than assuming that patients are receiving procaine.
Possible effects of Procaine on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Procaine
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/None listed
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
