When you have a sore throat, a mouth ulcer, and you can't eat, you also take a throat lozenge from the pharmacy and suck it, right? These lozenges provide great relief to your throat for a while. Most of the time, these lozenges contain a medicine called Benzocaine. So today, let's talk about these lozenges containing Benzocaine, how to use them exactly, and what you need to be careful about.
What is Benzocaine?
Simply put, Benzocaine is a medicine that temporarily numbs a painful area. Just like a doctor might inject a numbing medicine into your gums before extracting a tooth, this pill temporarily numbs the painful area in your mouth or throat.
This will only temporarily relieve the pain. It will not cure the cause of your sore throat. For example, if your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, this pill will not cure that infection. It needs to be treated separately. It is only used to relieve pain.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although you can buy this medicine at a pharmacy, it is very important to inform your doctor about these things.
- Mouth sores or severe infections: If you have a lot of mouth sores or a severe infection, tell your doctor.
- Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you are allergic to Benzocaine or other numbing medications (such as those used by dentists). Also, tell your doctor if you have any allergies to other medications, foods, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a mother who is breastfeeding.
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this, you need to use it properly.
- Hold this tablet in your mouth and suck it slowly until it dissolves. Never cut, crush, or chew this tablet. Doing so will cause the medicine to be swallowed immediately and will not properly reach the painful areas of your throat.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after using the medicine.
- Follow the instructions on the medicine package or as directed by your doctor. Do not use more than the recommended amount.
When given to small children
Special care should be taken when giving this medicine to young children. Therefore, be sure to talk to your doctor and seek advice before giving this to a child.
Overdose
Imagine if you took several of these pills in a row. If you took too many, it could be dangerous.
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
And remember, this medicine is for you only. Don't give the pill you took for your sore throat to someone else in the house for their sore throat.
Things to be careful about when using
- Do not use for long-term relief: This is only for temporary relief. If your sore throat does not improve after a few days of use, or if redness, swelling, or itching increases, be sure to see a doctor.
- Be aware of the numbness: This is the most important thing that many people forget. After you finish taking the pill, your mouth and throat will feel numb. Don't eat, chew gum, or drink anything hot until the numbness has completely gone. Otherwise, you may accidentally bite or burn your tongue or cheek.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. The table below provides a clear picture of these.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Difficulty breathing. If you have any of these, see a doctor immediately. |
| Methemoglobinemia | This is a rare but serious condition. If you experience symptoms such as blue skin or lips, headache, extreme fatigue, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, or a fast heartbeat, go to the hospital immediately. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing are also serious symptoms. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| The place where the medicine was applied is uncomfortable. | Slight burning or discomfort at the site of the injection. This usually goes away after a while. If it persists, tell your doctor . |
Does it interact with other medications?
Yes, Benzocaine can interact with some medications. Especially with antibiotics called Sulfonamides (e.g. sulfamethoxazole), its effectiveness may change.
So when you see your doctor, give him a complete list of all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements).
How do you store medicine?
- Keep away from children and pets. These are sweet and may tempt small children to eat them. This is dangerous.
- Store at normal room temperature, away from sunlight and moisture.
- Discard any medication that has passed its expiration date without using it.
Take-Home Message
- Benzocaine tablets are a medicine that temporarily numbs and relieves a sore throat, but they are not a cure.
- Hold this tablet in your mouth and suck it slowly. Never chew or crush it.
- After using the pill, avoid eating or drinking hot things until the tingling sensation in your mouth goes away. Otherwise, you may injure your tongue or cheek.
- If your sore throat does not improve within a few days or if you experience serious side effects, seek medical advice immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Always store these pills safely, out of the reach of small children.
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