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Benzocaine

This form:

Pronounced

"BEN-zoe-kane"

Common brand names:

Orajel

Uses

Benzocaine is used short term to relieve pain from minor mouth problems (such as toothache, canker sores, sore gums/throat, mouth/gum injury). It is a local anesthetic that works by numbing the painful area.

Do not use this product for children younger than 2 years due to risk of serious side effects. Ask your doctor for more details.

How to Use This Medication

Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not use this medication more than 4 times a day unless directed by your doctor. Allow medication to stay on painful area for at least 1 minute before spitting out or rinsing the mouth.

Do not use large amounts of this drug or use more often than directed because the risk for serious side effects (including rarely fatal methemoglobinemia) will increase.

Avoid getting this medication in the eyes.

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor if your sore throat is severe or if it lasts for more than 2 days, or if your sore mouth symptoms last more than 7 days, or if you have a fever, headache, rash, swelling, nausea, or vomiting. You may have a serious medical problem that may require different treatment. If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.