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Compare Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Benzocaine topical and lidocaine viscous (Xylocaine) are both local anesthetics used to relieve pain, but they have important differences. Benzocaine topical, available over-the-counter, is used for temporary relief of pain and itching from minor skin irritations like burns, cuts, and insect bites. It comes in various forms such as creams, gels, and sprays. Lidocaine viscous, on the other hand, is prescription-only and is used to numb painful sores in the mouth and throat, as well as to prevent gagging during dental procedures. It is typically swished and spit or swallowed. Both medications can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia. Common side effects of benzocaine include mild burning or stinging, whereas lidocaine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. It's important to follow dosing instructions carefully for both medications to avoid serious side effects.

  • Chloraseptic warming sore throat (benzocaine)
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
  • Chloraseptic warming sore throat (benzocaine)
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)

  • Summary of Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

    Summary for Local anesthetic

    Benzocaine lozenges, also known by the brand name Chloraseptic Warming Sore Throat, are used to relieve mouth and throat pain in adults and children. Benzocaine works as a local anesthetic and numbs the area. The lozenges are dissolved in the mouth and then swallowed. They're taken every 2 hours as needed. Most people have few to no side effects after they take Chloraseptic Warming Sore Throat (benzocaine) as directed for sore throat and sore mouth.

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

  • Indications of Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

    Indications for

    Short-term relief of:

    •Sore mouth and sore throat
    •Mouth irritation
    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)

  • Pros and Cons of Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Has very few side effects if taken as directed
    •Available over the counter, so you don't need a prescription
    •Works within 20 minutes for most people
    •Can be used for children (check package label for specific age)
    Cons
    •Only for temporary relief of mouth or throat pain
    •Pain relief is short, so might need to take every 2 hours
    •Might not completely relieve the pain
    •Doesn't treat infections or colds
    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications

  • Common Side Effects of Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Mouth and throat numbness
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area

  • Warnings of Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of serious blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Need medical attention for severe sore throat
    •Serious allergic reaction
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets

  • Prices with our coupons for Benzocaine vs. Lidoderm

    Learn more about Chloraseptic warming sore throat
    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch

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