Butacaine is primarily used as a local anesthetic, particularly in medical and dental procedures. It works by temporarily numbing specific areas of the body, allowing for pain-free treatments. In dentistry, it is often applied to the gums or mucous membranes to reduce discomfort during procedures like tooth extractions or minor surgeries. Additionally, butacaine is sometimes used in ophthalmology to anesthetize the surface of the eye for examinations or minor eye surgeries. Its fast-acting and short-duration effects make it suitable for quick, localized pain relief. However, its use has declined over time due to the availability of safer and more effective anesthetics.