Benzocaine
Benzocaine is a local anesthestic that is used to numb various areas of the body.
Uses For Benzocaine
Benzocaine is primarily used to relieve pain and itching from various conditions such as mouth ulcers, sore throats, teething in infants, genital itching, and hemorrhoids.
| Brand Name | Benzocaine |
|---|---|
| Type | |
| Weight | |
| Generic | Benzocaine |
| Manufacturer | |
| Available in | English বাংলা |
Mechanism of Action
The active ingredient in benzocaine blocks nerve signals in the body, reducing the sensation of pain and itching in the affected area. It does not reduce inflammation or swelling.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effects of benzocaine are almost immediate, taking about one to five minutes for the numbing sensation to kick in. The duration of the effects can last from 20-40 minutes.
Absorption
Benzocaine is absorbed through the skin, and is also known to be absorbed through ingestion.
Route of Elimination
Benzocaine is metabolized by the liver and excreted through the kidneys.
Dosage
The usual dose for adults is 5-20 milligrams applied topically, repeat as necessary. The exact dose determined by a healthcare provider depending on the condition being treated.
Administration
Benzocaine is applied topically on the affected area. It can also be ingested as a lozenge or throat spray.
Side Effects
- Allergic reactions
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Breathing difficulty
- Swelling of the face and tongue
- Loss of sensation
- Stomach upset
Toxicity
The toxic effects of benzocaine is rare and mostly seen in people who have been exposed to large doses of benzocaine. The signs of benzocaine toxicity are headache, dizziness, coma, seizures, low blood pressure, and breathing difficulties.
Precautions
- Do not use on large areas of the body
- Do not use on broken or irritated skin
- Do not use near eyes or mucous membranes
- Do not use in children younger than two years of age
- Do not use in people who have had a history of allergic reactions to local anesthetics
- Do not use if patient is taking a MAO inhibitor
Interactions
- Cimetidine
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Estrogens
- Probenecid
- Amphetamines
Disease Interactions
- CNS Depressants
- Renal Impairment
- Respiratory Depression
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Liver Disease
- Gallbladder Disease
- Thyroid Disease
Drug Interactions
- Xiidra (ethylcellulose)
- Xenazine
- Xyrem (sodium oxybate)
- Xigduo XR (dapagliflozin and metformin hydrochloride)
- Xtampza ER (oxycodone)
- Xanax (alprazolam)
- Xeljanz XR (tofacitinib)
Food Interactions
There are no known food interactions with benzocaine.
Pregnancy Use
Benzocaine should be avoided during pregnancy unless the benefit outweighs the risk. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Lactation Use
It is not known if benzocaine is secreted in breast milk, so it should be avoided in nursing mothers.
Acute Overdose
Overdosage of benzocaine can cause serious side effects like arrhythmias, respiratory depression, and coma. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Contraindication
Benzocaine should not be used in people who have allergies to local anesthetics. It should also not be used in people who have kidney, liver, or cardiac problems, or in any patient with a history of anemia.
Use Directions
Always read and follow the directions provided with the medication. Use benzocaine exactly as directed. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin or near the eyes or mouth.
Storage Conditions
Benzocaine should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution (Vd) for benzocaine is 0.7 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of benzocaine is approximately 1.6 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of benzocaine is 0.97L/hr/kg.
See in details version Benzocaine also Benzocaine in bangla
