Benzocaine
Benzocaine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.
Benzocaine, an ester local anaesthetic, blocks the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses by decreasing the neuronal membrane’s permeability to Na ions, which results in inhibition of depolarisation with resultant blockade of conduction.
Benzocaine is indicated for use as a topical anesthetic. It has a duration of action of approximately 10 minutes and a wide therapeutic window. Patients should be counselled regarding the risks of methemoglobinemia.
| Trade Name | Benzocaine |
| Generic | Benzocaine |
| Benzocaine Other Names | Amben ethyl ester, Benzocaina, Benzocaine, Benzocainum, Ethyl aminobenzoate, Ethyl p-aminobenzoate, Ethyl p-aminophenylcarboxylate, p-(Ethoxycarbonyl)aniline, p-Carbethoxyaniline, p-Ethoxycarboxylic aniline |
| Type | Topical Application, Mucous Membrane Gel, Mucous Membrane Liquid, Mucous Membrane Paste, Mucous Membrane Powder For Reconstitution, Mucous Membrane Spray, Mucous Membrane Swab, Mucous Membrane Tablet, Disintegrating, Rectal Ointment, Topical Cream, Topical Gel, Topical Liquid, Topical Lotion, Topical Ointment, Topical Spray, Topical Stick, Topical Swab |
| Formula | C9H11NO2 |
| Weight | Average: 165.1891 Monoisotopic: 165.078978601 |
| Protein binding | Benzocaine binds to both serum albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein. |
| Groups | Approved, Investigational |
| Therapeutic Class | Local & Surface anesthesia |
| Manufacturer | |
| Available Country | United States |
| Last Updated: | September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am |
Uses
For the temporary relief of pain due to minor injury or irritation of the mouth and gums like Toothache, Sore gums, Canker sores, Braces, Minor dental procedures, Dentures
Benzocaine is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Acute Sore Throat Pain, Dental Pain, Gangrene Stomatitis, Gingivitis, Hemorrhoids, Laryngitis, Pharyngitis, Premature Ejaculation, Secondary Bacterial Infection caused by Tonsillectomy, Secondary Bacterial Infection caused by Tooth Extractions, Skin Irritation, Sore Throat, Stomatitis, Sunburn, Teething pain, Tonsillitis, Tooth Pain, Vomiting, Pruritic dermatosis, Ulceration of the mouth, Buccopharyngeal anesthesia
How Benzocaine works
Benzocaine diffuses into nerve cells where it binds to sodium channels, preventing the channels from opening, and blocking the influx of sodium ions. Nerve cells unable to allow sodium into cells cannot depolarize and conduct nerve impulses.
Dosage
Benzocaine dosage
Apply to the affected area up to 4 times daily or as directed by a doctor/dentist. Children under 12 years of age should be supervised during the use of this product. Children under 2 years of age should be consulted to a doctor/dentist prior to the use of this product. An easy application might be done by fixing applicator on the tube’s nozzle. After application, supplied cap should be fixed on top of the applicator.
Side Effects
Side effects are less common. The side effects include allergies, swelling in the mouth or throatetc.
Toxicity
Patients experiencing an overdose may present with local anesthetic systemic toxicity syndrome, decreased cardiovascular function, decreased central nervous system function, cardiac arrest, bradycardia, hypotension, cardiac arrhythmias, syncope, and seizures. Patients should be treated with symptomatic and supportive measures which include airway maintenance, controlling seizures, and hemodynamic stabilization.
Precaution
Patient with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, heart disease; smokers. Children, Pregnancy and lactation.
Interaction
May antagonise the therapeutic effect of sulfonamides. Anticholinesterases may inhibit the metabolism benzocaine.
Food Interaction
No interactions found.Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use
Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Contraindication
Epiglottis (oral spray), methaemoglobinaemia.
Acute Overdose
Symptom: Methaemoglobinaemia, manifested by cyanotic (greyish) skin discolouration, unusual breathing or breathlessness.
Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment. IV methylene blue 1% may be administered.
Storage Condition
Store between 15-30° C.
Innovators Monograph
You find simplified version here Benzocaine
Benzocaine contains Benzocaine see full prescribing information from innovator Benzocaine Monograph, Benzocaine MSDS, Benzocaine FDA label
FAQ
What is Benzocaine used for?
Benzocaine topical is used to reduce pain or discomfort caused by minor skin irritations, sore throat, sunburn, vaginal or rectal irritation, ingrown toenails, hemorrhoids, and many other sources of minor pain on a surface of the body. Benzocaine is an ester local anesthetic commonly used as a topical pain reliever or in cough drops. It is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter anesthetic ointments such as products for oral ulcers.
How safe is Benzocaine?
Benzocaine topical used in the mouth may cause a condition in which the oxygen in your body tissues can become dangerously low. This is a potentially fatal condition called methemoglobinemia. Do not use Benzocaine topical if you have ever had methemoglobinemia.
How does Benzocaine work?
Benzocaine works by blocking nerve signals in your body.
What are the common side effects of Benzocaine?
Common side effects of Benzocaine are include:
- Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms.
- difficulty breathing.
- dizziness or lightheadedness.
- high fever.
- rapid heart rate.
- worsening of pain, redness, swelling, or irritation in or around the mouth.
Is Benzocaine safe during pregnancy?
Benzocaine topical is only recommended for use during pregnancy when benefit outweighs risk.
Is Benzocaine safe during breastfeeding?
Benzocaine has not been studied during breastfeeding, but is unlikely to affect her breastfed infant if it is applied away from the breast.
Can I drink alcohol with Benzocaine?
Alcohol and Benzocaine creates a that has different effects depending on the dose: many people feel stimulated and strengthened at low doses of alcohol and Benzocaine and even mixing a small amount of Benzocaine and alcohol is not recommended.
How often can I take Benzocaine?
Do not use the Benzocaine more than four times a day.
How should I use Benzocaine topical?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your body may absorb more of benzocaine topical if you use too much, if you apply it over large skin areas, or if you apply heat, bandages, or plastic wrap to treated skin areas. Skin that is cut or irritated may also absorb more topical medication than healthy skin.
How long does Benzocaine take to work?
Benzocaine is a water-insoluble ester-type local anesthetic agent that is mainly useful for topical application. The onset of action is rapid (<1 minute), and the effective duration is 5 to 10 minutes.
What happens if I use Benzocaine too much?
An overdose of Benzocaine topical applied to the skin can cause life-threatening side effects such as uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), coma, slowed breathing, or respiratory failure (breathing stops).
How much Benzocaine is toxic?
The threshold toxic dose for Benzocaine is 22-40 mg/kg.
Who should not take Benzocaine?
Do not use benzocaine topical if you have ever had methemoglobinemia. Do not use Benzocaine topical on a child younger than 2 years old.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Benzocaine topical is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose.
What what happen if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention. An overdose of benzocaine topical applied to the skin can cause life-threatening side effects such as uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), coma, slowed breathing, or respiratory failure (breathing stops).
Will Benzocaine affect my fertility?
Studies have not been done to see if Benzocaine could affect male fertility or increase the chance of birth defects. In general, exposures that fathers or sperm donors have are unlikely to increase the risks to a pregnancy.
Can I drive after taking Benzocaine ?
Benzocaine does not affect your ability to drive.
Can Benzocaine affects my liver?
Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding the usage of Benzocaine in patients with liver impairment.
Can Benzocaine affects my kidney?
Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding the usage of Benzocaine in patients with kidney impairment.
Can I take Benzocaine for a long time?
Benzocaine should not be used for longer durations unless prescribed by a doctor. If your condition does not improve despite using Benzocaine for a week, consult your doctor, he/she may prescribe you an alternate medicine.
Is It safe to use Benzocaine on large areas of skin?
The topical form of Benzocaine should not be used on large areas of skin, deep puncture wounds, raw or blistered skin, and on severe burns or abrasions. Use the smallest amount of Benzocaine to numb the skin and to relieve pain.
Is Benzocaine safe to treat mouth ulcers ?
Benzocaine is used to treat mouth ulcers, canker sores and mouth irritation. Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores are small, painful lesions which develop in the mouth or at the base of gums.
Can Benzocaine be used for teething pain?
Benzocaine should not be used to treat teething pain in infants.
can I eat after using Benzocaine?
If you are using Benzocaine for treating tooth pain, gum pain, or mouth ulcers, avoid eating within 1hour after using Benzocaine. Benzocaine numbs the skin; this might cause biting of the tongue. Avoid swallowing the topical form of Benzocaine while applying it to your gums or inside the mouth.
