Benzocaine is a local anesthetic that temporarily numbs an area of the body. It blocks nerve signals in the applied region, relieving pain or discomfort. This provides temporary relief from sensations like pain, itching, or irritation.
Benzocaine in Oral and Mucosal Products
Benzocaine is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter products designed to alleviate pain within the mouth and on other mucous membranes. For oral pain relief, it is found in gels, liquids, and ointments used for toothaches, canker sores, and discomfort from dentures. Products like lozenges and sprays also utilize benzocaine to numb the throat, providing relief for sore throats. Beyond oral applications, benzocaine is also present in some creams and suppositories for the temporary relief of pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids.
Benzocaine in Topical Skin and Other External Products
Benzocaine is widely incorporated into products applied to the skin for external pain relief. Creams, sprays, and ointments containing benzocaine are used to soothe minor skin irritations such as sunburn, insect bites, minor cuts, scrapes, and rashes from poison ivy, oak, or sumac. These topical applications help to reduce localized pain and itching.
Some ear drops also contain benzocaine, providing temporary relief from earache pain, for instance, in conditions like swimmer’s ear. Additionally, benzocaine is an ingredient in certain sexual health products, such as desensitizing sprays or condoms. In these applications, its numbing effect is intended to help delay ejaculation.
Safety Considerations
While benzocaine provides temporary relief, its use comes with important safety considerations, particularly regarding a serious blood disorder known as methemoglobinemia. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against using benzocaine products for teething pain in infants and children younger than two years old due to the risk of this condition. Methemoglobinemia occurs when the amount of oxygen carried by red blood cells is significantly reduced, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms can include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, along with shortness of breath, headache, and fatigue.
General precautions for benzocaine use include not exceeding the recommended dosage or frequency of application. It should not be used on large areas of the body or on broken or severely irritated skin, as this can increase absorption into the bloodstream. Potential side effects can also include allergic reactions, skin rash, irritation, or a temporary burning sensation at the application site. If any signs of methemoglobinemia or severe side effects occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.