The primary use of benzocaine cream is as a pain reliever. It is a medicated cream that is applied topically, or to the skin. The medicine is a local anesthetic, which means that it works by numbing the area of skin to dull the pain. This product is available in many different strengths and brands, so the patient should carefully read the product information or talk to a pharmacist to determine the proper use.
Benzocaine cream is often applied to the mouth and gums to alleviate minor pain and irritation that can be caused by orthodontic appliances or dentures. Women may also apply it to the vaginal area for irritation. Sometimes, a doctor may apply it to the rectal area when he needs to insert a speculum or other instrument. In addition, benzocaine cream may alleviate minor pain caused by sunburn, hemorrhoids, or ingrown toenails. Pediatricians may sometimes recommend that parents or caregivers apply the medicated cream to the gums of a teething baby.
The specific application of the cream will vary, depending on what it is being used for. Patients should always follow the instructions of their doctors or pharmacists. They must also use the smallest amount of the cream that is effective. When this medicine is used to treat hemorrhoids, the area should first be cleansed and then a small amount of the cream applied to the area. It may be used up to six times daily.
When this product is used to treat minor irritations of the skin, the patient should apply a very thin layer of the medication on the affected area. It may be used no more than four times daily, or as recommended by a doctor. Patients should always wash their hands thoroughly after application.
This medicine is not intended to treat deep puncture wounds, serious injuries, or large areas of skin, because the patient may use too much of the medicine. It should also never be applied to skin that is severely blistered or abraded. Patients will typically use the cream for about a week, depending on the severity of the injury. They should contact their doctors if their symptoms do not improve.
Before using benzocaine cream, patients should discuss their other medical conditions with a doctor or pharmacist. Those with allergies to local anesthetics must avoid this product. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should seek a doctor's advice. It may be contraindicated for use by those with asthma, heart disease, or a history of methemoglobinemia. Rarely, when used in the mouth, benzocaine cream may cause a life-threatening reaction.