Let's learn more about Benzocaine cream for minor wounds and burns. (Benzocaine)

It is common for small accidents and emergencies to happen in our daily lives. Imagine, while working in the kitchen, you get a little burned on your hand by touching a hot pan, while going out in the garden, you get bitten by an ant or another insect, or a small child falls and scratches his skin a little while playing. The pain and inflammation that comes at times like these are really annoying. So today we are going to talk about a type of cream that we use to relieve such minor pains, which can be easily purchased from pharmacies. That is a cream, ointment or spray containing Benzocaine.

Simply put, what is Benzocaine?

Benzocaine is a local anesthetic . This means that when it is applied to the skin, it temporarily numbs the area. It's like a doctor putting a numbing cream on your gums before a tooth extraction. This medicine temporarily blocks the nerve signals that carry pain from the skin to the brain. Then we stop feeling the pain.

Therefore, products containing Benzocaine are mainly used for things like:

• Pain and itching caused by insect bites.
• Minor burns (e.g. sunburn, spilling a little hot water).
• Small injuries such as scratches.
• Other minor aches and pains in the skin.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Although this is an over-the-counter medication, it may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, be sure to inform your doctor about these facts before you start using it.

• If you have a skin infection: If the wound or burn is infected (oozing pus, very swollen, or red), it is essential to seek medical advice before using this type of medication.
• If you have allergies: You should tell your doctor if you have any allergies to benzocaine, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) (also found in some sunscreens), other anesthetics, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is very important to seek medical advice before using any medication during this time.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: It is not possible to say for sure whether this medicine passes to the baby through breast milk, so it is safest to talk to your doctor.

How do I use this correctly and safely?

To get the most out of this medicine and avoid any risks, it is important to follow these instructions.

• For topical use only: This is for topical use only . Do not take by mouth or apply internally for any reason.
• Protect eyes: Do not let the medicine get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.
• Read the label: Read the instructions on the package or label carefully and use the medicine as directed. If a doctor gives you instructions, follow them. Do not take more than the prescribed amount or more often than prescribed.
• When giving to children: Although this can be used by children over 2 years of age, it is best to consult your pediatrician before using this product. Do not use this product on children under 2 years of age without medical advice.
• Overdose: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, or if you suspect that a small child has taken it, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
• Do not share: This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with others, even if their symptoms are similar to yours.

What are the possible side effects?

Although most people do not experience serious side effects, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects that may occur. Some of these may require emergency medical treatment.

Can there be problems with other medications?

Yes. Benzocaine can interact with medications, especially sulfonamides (such as sulfamethoxazole). Therefore, it is very important to give your doctor a complete list of all the medications you are taking (prescribed, over-the-counter, herbal products, vitamins).

Other things to be careful about when using

• Do not use it long-term: This is for short-term pain relief only. If the condition does not improve after a few days, be sure to see a doctor.
• Do not apply to large areas: Do not apply this to large areas of skin, broken or severely damaged skin.
• Fire hazard: If the product you are using contains alcohol, do not go near open flames or lit cigarettes while it is being used, as it can catch fire.
• Storage: Keep this medicine out of the reach of children . Store at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Do not freeze. Throw away if expired.

Benzocaine, cream, ointment, skin pain, insect bites, burns, side effects, numbness, local anesthetic, Sri Lanka