Benzocaine skin cream, ointment, solution, or spray

What is this medicine?

BENZOCAINE (BEN zoe kane) causes loss of feeling in the skin. This helps relieve pain from insect bites, minor burns, small wounds, or other skin irritations.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the label or those given to you by your doctor or health care professional. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Do not use this medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be used on children as young as 2 years, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• dizziness or drowsiness

• fast or slow heartbeat

• headache

• increased sweating

• restlessness, nervousness, anxiety

• seizures

• tremor

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• redness, swelling, or pain

What may interact with this medicine?

• sulfonamides like sulfacetamide, sulfamethoxazole, sulfisoxazole, and others

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• skin infection

• an unusual or allergic reaction to benzocaine, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This medicine is not for long-term use. Do not use for longer than directed on the label or your doctor or health care professional. Do not use on large areas of broken or damaged skin. Contact your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better within a few days or if you notice redness, itching or swelling.

If the product you are using contains alcohol, keep away from lighted matches, cigarettes and other open flames.