Benzocaine
Chemical Names: Benzocaine; Ethyl 4-aminobenzoate; ; Ethyl aminobenzoate; Ethyl p-aminobenzoate; Americaine
CAS number: 94-09-7
Molecular Formula: C9H11NO2
Molecular Weight: 165.192 g/mol
Benzocaine is a local anesthetic (numbing medication). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.
Benzocaine topical is used to reduce pain or discomfort caused by minor skin irritations, sore throat, sunburn, teething pain, vaginal or rectal irritation, ingrown toenails, hemorrhoids, and many other sources of minor pain on a surface of the body. Benzocaine is also used to numb the skin or surfaces inside the mouth, nose, throat, vagina, or rectum to lessen the pain of inserting a medical instrument such as a tube or speculum.
There are many brands and forms of benzocaine topical available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Benzocaine topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about benzocaine topical?
Benzocaine topical used in the mouth or throat may cause methemoglobinemia (met-HEEM-oh glo-bin-EE-mee-a), a life-threatening condition in which the amount of oxygen in your blood stream becomes dangerously low. Do not use benzocaine topical if you have ever had methemoglobinemia.
Pharmacodynamics: Benzocaine is a local anesthetic commonly used as a topical pain reliever. It is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter analgesic ointments. It is also indicated for general use as a lubricant and topical anesthetic on intratracheal catheters and pharyngeal and nasal airways to obtund the pharyngeal and tracheal reflexes; on nasogastric and endoscopic tubes; urinary catheters; laryngoscopes; proctoscopes; sigmoidoscopes and vaginal specula.
Mechanism of action: Benzocaine binds to sodium channels and reversibly stabilizes the neuronal membrane which decreases its permeability to sodium ions. Depolarization of the neuronal membrane is inhibited thereby blocking the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses.
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.
Use the smallest amount needed to numb the skin or relieve pain. Do not use large amounts of benzocaine topical. Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or plastic wrap without medical advice.
Do not use benzocaine topical to treat large skin areas or deep puncture wounds. Avoid using the medicine on skin that is raw or blistered, such as a severe burn or abrasion.
To treat minor skin conditions, apply a thin layer of benzocaine topical to the affected area. If using the spray, hold the container 6 to 12 inches away from the skin. Do not spray this medication onto your face. Spray it instead on your hands and then rub it onto the face, avoiding contact with your eyes.
Clean the area with soap and water before applying benzocaine topical. Wash your hands before and after inserting a rectal suppository.
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