You've probably used a gel from the pharmacy when you have a toothache, a sore in your mouth, or a minor sore in your gums. Most of the time, these contain a drug called Benzocaine. Although it may seem easy to use, there are some important things that we need to know. We should think twice before giving these to young children, especially. We'll talk about all of that today.
What is Benzocaine?
Simply put, benzocaine is a medicine that temporarily numbs the area. To be precise, it is a type of ``local anesthetic''. Before extracting a tooth, the doctor gives a small injection into the gum, and when it is injected, that area feels numb, right? Just like when you apply this gel, only the painful area feels numb for a while and the pain goes away.
This is usually used:
- For a sudden toothache
- For pain caused by mouth ulcers
- For pain and swelling in the gums
- Relieve minor sore throats
Although this medicine is known abroad under names like Anbesol and Orajel, you can find this type of gel, paste or liquid under various names in Sri Lanka as well. The most important thing is to check whether the ingredients contain benzocaine, regardless of its name.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Although this is an over-the-counter medication, it is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, before you use this medication, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions.
- G6PD deficiency: This is a condition involving an enzyme in the blood of some people.
- Heart disease: If you have any heart condition.
- Lung or respiratory diseases: If you have respiratory diseases such as asthma.
- Mouth sores or infections: If you have large mouth sores or infections.
- If you are a smoker: Smoking can also interact with some medications.
- Allergies: If you have an allergy to benzocaine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a child.
- If you are a mother who is breastfeeding.
It is very important for your safety to tell the doctor these things.
Okay, how exactly do you use this?
Using this is very simple.
1. First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
2. Take a small amount of the medicine onto your finger or a clean cotton bud.
3. Apply the medicine directly to the area of pain.
4. Wash your hands thoroughly again after use.
The most important thing is to read the instructions on the label that comes with the medicine carefully. Do not use more than the amount or frequency recommended.
Why do you need to be very careful when giving to young children? (This is very important!)
This is the most important part of this article. Many mothers use these types of gels to relieve teething pain in their little ones. But it can be very dangerous.
Do not use gels containing benzocaine for teething pain or mouth sores in children under 2 years of age for any reason.
Why is that? Because this medicine can cause a very rare but very serious blood condition called methemoglobinemia .
Simply put, when this condition occurs, the child's blood is unable to absorb oxygen properly. This is a medical emergency. Symptoms include a child's lips, skin, or fingernails turning blue, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue, and a rapid heartbeat.
Therefore, if your little one has a sore mouth, be sure to consult a pediatrician before giving them a gel like this.
What side effects can be expected?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Type of side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Symptoms of Methemoglobinemia | Blue skin or lips, severe headache, unusual tiredness, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| These things are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Discomfort at the injection site | Slight redness or burning sensation where the medicine was applied. |
What else do you need to remember?
- For short-term use only: This medicine is not recommended for long-term use. If the pain does not subside after a few days of use, be sure to see a doctor.
- Be careful of tingling: Since the area where the medicine is applied will feel numb, you may accidentally bite your tongue or cheek. Therefore, avoid eating or chewing gum until the tingling sensation has completely gone.
- If you overdose: If you think you have taken more medicine than you should, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
- Medicine storage: Keep out of reach of children and pets, at room temperature. Throw away after expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- Benzocaine is a local anesthetic used to relieve minor pain in the mouth and throat.
- Most importantly: Never use this medicine for teething pain in children under 2 years of age. It can cause a dangerous condition called ``Methemoglobinemia.''
- Before using this medicine, tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and any medications you are taking.
- If you experience symptoms such as blue lips or skin, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat while using the medicine, it is an emergency. Go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Don't eat when your mouth is numb. You could accidentally injure your tongue or cheek.
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