Benzocaine
Where is Benzocaine found?
Benzocaine is a topical anesthetic frequently used in cold medicine, cough syrups, throat and mouth medicines, hemorrhoid medicine, sunburn ointments, pain-relieving ointments, anti-itch ointments, wound ointments and powders. It is a common sensitizer and may cause photosensitization in some people.
How can you avoid contact with Benzocaine?
Avoid products that list any of the following names in the ingredients:
• Benzocaine
• 4-carbethoxyaniline
• ethyl PABA
• benzoic acid, 4-amino-,ethyl ester
• ethyl 4-aminobenzoate
What are some products that may contain Benzocaine?
After Sun Care
Cold Medicine
Cough Syrups
Itch Relief Products
Oral and Nasal Sore Medications
Pain Relief Sprays, Ointments and Gels
Pet Care
Throat Lozenges and Sprays
Vaginal and Perianal Care
Note
Patients allergic to benzocaine may also experience reactions to other esther type anesthetics and unless shown not to be allergic to other esther anesthetics, they should be avoided. You may cross-reaction to para-phenylenediamine in hair dye, PABA and related compounds in sunscreens, topical sulfonamides, and azo dyes in clothing.
A clinician's point of view.
Additional resources and links for Benzocaine.
To submit resources or links, please fill out the submission form at the top of this page.
For additional information about products that might contain Benzocaine, visit the Consumer Product Information Database. These lists are brief and provide just a few examples. They are not comprehensive. Product formulations also change frequently. Read product labels carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any questions. These are general guidelines. Talk to your doctor for more specific instructions.
