Benzocaine

Benzocaine is a local anesthetic with many uses. It is used as a topical pain reliever or in cough drops. When combined with other drugs, it can be used to remove ear wax and relieve ear pain. Benzocaine is typically an over- the- counter medication and is available in spray, gel, paste or solution.

This topical anesthetist should best be used under the guidance of a doctor or a registered medical professional. If not, dosage instructions on the label of the medication should be followed. All the varieties of Benzocaine are meant to be used topically. Application of the medication once or twice a day on the affected area is sufficient. It is extremely important to wash one’s hands with water after use.

Though Benzocaine is a safe medication, side effects have been reported in some cases. Swelling, redness and warmth in the affected area, blistering or oozing, headache, breathing problems, dizziness, fast heart rate and severe burning or stinging sensation on the affected area are important side effects one should be aware of. In case any of them do occur, it is essential that the doctor be called immediately.

Since Benzocaine is a topical medication, care should be taken to keep it away from the eyes. In case the medication is used inside the mouth, nothing should be eaten an hour before and after of using it. In case an overdose is suspected, the doctor should be called for immediately to prevent side effects.