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benzocaine

Generic
Used for Pain
Used for Pain

Benzocaine topical is a local anesthetic. It temporarily eases minor skin irritations and pain by blocking pain signals. Benzocaine topical is applied to the skin, typically 3 to 4 times a day; most products can be used by adults and children ages 2 years and older. You can find it over-the-counter (OTC) in many dosage forms, including spray, gel, and cream. Benzocaine topical might cause some mild burning or stinging as side effects.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on November 14, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is Benzocaine topical?

What is Benzocaine topical used for?

Temporary relief of pain and itching from minor skin irritations, including:

How Benzocaine topical works

Benzocaine topical is a local anesthetic. It works by blocking sodium channels in the skin, which prevents sending pain signals to the brain and feeling pain.

Are you looking for information on benzocaine lozenge instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsBoil Ease, Americaine, Chiggerex
Drug ClassLocal anesthetic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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$9.89(save 12.74%)
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What are the side effects of Benzocaine topical?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe blood problem (methemoglobinemia): seizures, loss of consciousness, fast heart beat, trouble breathing, feeling dizzy or faint, feeling tired, skin color turning blue or pale
  • Serious allergic reactions: swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, trouble speaking, throat tightening up, red and itchy rash, lightheadedness, clammy skin

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

Bluish color of the fingernails, lips, skin, palms, or nail beds

Incidence not known

Blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, or flaking of the skin

cracking, itching, redness, or stinging of the skin

dark urine

difficulty with breathing

difficulty with walking

dizziness or lightheadedness

fainting

fever

headache

inability to feel hands and feet

irritability

irritation of the nose

itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of the skin

pale skin

rapid heart rate

red, sore eyes

shortness of breath

sore throat

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, weakness, or feeling of sluggishness

unusual tiredness or weakness

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Benzocaine topical

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Pros

Available over the counter as a lower-cost generic

Can be applied directly to the painful area

Comes in many dosage forms (e.g., cream, gel, ointment, spray, swab)

Can be used as needed

Can be used in children as young as 2 years old

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Cons

Not recommended for use over large areas of injured or blistered skin because of higher risk of side effects

Can cause irritation if it makes contact with the eyes

Generally not recommended for use for longer than 1 week, unless directed by your provider

Young children and older adults have a higher risk of a serious blood condition from this medication.

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Benzocaine topical

pharmacist

  • There are several strengths and forms of benzocaine topical. Additionally, there are different benzocaine topical products used for different parts of the body. Make sure to carefully read the medication label of your benzocaine topical product and ask your pharmacist or provider if you have any questions.

    • It's not recommended to use more than one medication containing benzocaine at the same time unless your provider specifically said it was safe to do so. Doing so can raise your risk for side effects.

      • Avoid using benzocaine topical in or around your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, go to the hospital or contact the Poison Control Center by calling 1-800-222-1222.

        • If you're using the benzocaine topical spray, shake the canister well. Then, hold it 6 to 12 inches away from the treatment area when applying.

          • The contents of the benzocaine topical spray are under pressure. Don't use it near fire, expose it to high heat, or puncture the container. This could cause serious harm to you.

            • Wash your hands well with soap and water after using benzocaine topical. This will help avoid accidentally getting any of the medication in your eyes or mouth, which can cause irritation and other side effects.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Benzocaine topical

              How much benzocaine is dangerous?
              You should only apply a small amount of benzocaine topical to relieve minor skin irritation or pain. Most people don't experience many side effects from using benzocaine topical as directed. But rarely, people have reported a dangerous side effect called methemoglobinemia, typically from using oral benzocaine, especially among younger children. Don't use benzocaine topical in large quantities, or apply it to skin areas that are blistering or damaged, because doing so might cause you to absorb too much benzocaine. Also, avoid putting benzocaine topical in your eyes or mouths. If you have benzocaine topical at home, store it out of reach of children and pets.
              Is benzocaine topical safe during pregnancy?
              There's limited research about whether benzocaine topical is safe to use during pregnancy. But existing information suggests that only a small amount of benzocaine get absorbed in to the bloodstream and this amount is unlikely to cause harm to the baby. To be safe, if you're pregnant, ask your provider if benzocaine topical is right for you.
              Is benzocaine topical the same as lidocaine?
              Topical benzocaine and topical lidocaine are local anesthetics that are similar to each other, but they're not the same. Both medications are available in many different forms and strengths, and can help temporarily ease pain, itching, burning, or discomfort on the skin. Because benzocaine topical and topical lidocaine can cause similar side effects, including a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia, don't use both medications together unless directed by your provider.
              Where can I apply benzocaine topical?
              You can apply benzocaine topical to minor cuts, burns, sunburns, skin irritations, insect bites or stings, and boils on the skin. Don't apply it to deep puncture wounds or blistered or open skin. Avoid getting the medication in or around your eyes, mouth, or genital area, since this can lead to irritation. And don't use it on large areas of the body, because this could lead to more side effects from the medication.
              How long does benzocaine topical last?
              It takes less than 1 minute for benzocaine topical to start working. The effects of the medication last for about 5 to 10 minutes. But keep in mind there are several different forms of benzocaine, so depending on your specific benzocaine product and what you're using it for, it might last for a shorter or longer amount of time. Talk to your provider if you're concerned with how long benzocaine topical is lasting for you.
              How long can I use benzocaine topical?
              Benzocaine topical is only meant to provide temporarily relief from minor skin irritations. In general, you shouldn't need to use this medication for longer than 7 days. If your symptoms don't go away after 7 days, talk to your healthcare provider to see if you need more medical attention. Also, you should stop benzocaine topical and check in with your provider if your condition worsens or if there's redness or swelling on your skin.
              Does benzocaine topical heal canker sores or other pain inside the mouth?
              Don't apply benzocaine topical for skin irritations into the mouth. There are other benzocaine products (e.g., benzocaine (Hurricaine) oral spray, benzocaine (Orajel) gel) that are used specifically for different types of mouth pain. It's very important to closely read the medication label to make sure you're using a skin product versus an oral (mouth) product. Talk to your provider or pharmacist if you're unsure where the product can be used.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Benzocaine topical?

              Benzocaine topical can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Blood problems (methemoglobinemia)

              • Risk factors: Breathing problems | Heart disease | Certain genetic conditions | Older adults | Children under 2 years old | Smoking | Taking medications or foods containing nitrates

                Benzocaine topical can cause a rare, but serious, condition known as methemoglobinemia where your blood can't get enough oxygen to your body. The signs of this reaction are headaches, dizziness, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, feeling tired, and pale, gray- or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds. The risk is higher in young children, older adults, and people with heart or breathing problems. Signs of methemoglobinemia can happen within minutes to one or two hours after using benzocaine topical. This reaction can develop after using the medication for the first time or even if you've used it previously. Contact your provider right away if you notice any of these symptoms after using benzocaine topical.

                risk-warning

                Serious allergic reaction to topical pain medications

                Don't take benzocaine topical if you have a history of allergy to topical pain medications, such as procaine, bupivacaine, topical lidocaine. Watch out for signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, such as hives, trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, or throat. Please get medical attention right away if you have these signs and symptoms.

                dosage

                Benzocaine topical dosage forms

                The average cost for 1 tube of 28g of 20% of Benzocaine topical is $8.63 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 12.74% off the average retail price of $9.89.
                tube of ointment
                Tube of ointment
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                28g of 20%1 tube$8.63$8.63

                Typical dosing for Benzocaine topical

                Benzocaine topical is available in different dosage forms (e.g., swab, spray, cream, gel, ointment) and strengths. Different benzocaine topical products might have different instructions for use and different age cut-offs for children.

                Carefully read the package label of your product to make sure you're using the medication correctly. In general:

                • Adults and children (ages 2 years or older): Apply to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times a day.

                • Children (age under 2 years): Ask your child's provider.

                interactions

                Interactions between Benzocaine topical and other drugs

                Benzocaine topical may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Benzocaine topical. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                • Hyaluronidase
                • St John's Wort
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                How much does Benzocaine topical cost?

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                Benzocaine topical contraindications

                Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Benzocaine topical will not be safe for you to take.
                alternatives

                What are alternatives to Benzocaine topical?

                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Benzocaine topical. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                Benzocaine topical
                Used for:

                Temporary relief of pain and itching from minor skin irritations, including:

                $8.63 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Topical lidocaine
                Used for:

                • Minor burns

                • Sunburns

                • Minor cuts

                • Scrapes

                • Insect bites

                • Minor skin irritations

                • Joint and muscle pain

                • Hemorrhoids and other irritations in the anal area

                • Tattoos, piercings, microblading, and other skin procedures

                $22.03 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                References

                Best studies we found

                Bellus Medical, LLC. (2023). Benzocaine- benzocaine gel [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Beutlich Pharmaceuticals, LLC. (2023). Hurricaine topical anesthetic- benzocaine spray [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Centura Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2024). BLT 1- benzocaine ointment [package insert]. DailyMed.

                View All References (14)

                Church Dwight Co., Inc. (2023). Orajel instant pain relief regular- benzocaine 10% gel [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Derma Care Research Labs, LLC. (2022). Warrior Chiggerex relief- benzocaine 10% cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Dynarex Corporation. (2024). Benzocaine- benzocaine swab [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Insight Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2020). Americaine- benzocaine ointment [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Khajavirad, N., et al. (2023). Hemolysis and acquired methemoglobinemia associated with lidocaine and benzocaine topical application: A case report. Journal of Medical Case Reports.

                Kumar, M., et al. (2015). Topical anesthesia. Journal of Anaesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology.

                Ludlow, J. T., et al. (2023). Methemoglobinemia. StatPearls.

                Mother To Baby | Fact Sheets. (2021). Benzocaine. Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS).

                Russ Richardson, S., et al. (2022). Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. StatPearls.

                Sachdeva, R., et al. (2003). Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia: a potentially fatal complication of transesophageal echocardiography. Texas Heart Institute Journal.

                ScienceDirect. (n.d.). Benzocaine.

                Singh, R., et al. (2023). Benzocaine. StatPearls.

                U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). Risk of serious and potentially fatal blood disorder prompts FDA action on oral over-the-counter benzocaine products used for teething and mouth pain and prescription local anesthetics.

                Vohra, R., et al. (2017). Pediatric exposures to topical benzocaine preparations reported to a statewide poison control system. The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine.

                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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