Anbesol Gel
Generic name:benzocaine topical [ BENZ-oh-kane-TOP-ik-al ]
Drug class:Topical anesthetics
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 14, 2021.
What is Anbesol Gel?
Anbesol Gel contains benzocaine), a local anesthetic (numbing medication). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.
Anbesol Gel numbs the skin or surfaces inside the mouth and used for the temporary relief of pain from sore throat, canker sores, fever blisters, minor irritation or injury of the mouth and gums.
Anbesol Gel should not be used in a child younger than 2 years old..
Warnings
Anbesol Gel used in the mouth may cause a condition in which the oxygen in your body tissues can become dangerously low. This is a potentially fatal condition called methemoglobinemia (met-HEEM-oh glo-bin-EE-mee-a). Do not use this medicine if you have ever had methemoglobinemia.
GET EMERGENCY MEDICAL HELP IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS OF METHEMOGLOBINEMIA:headache, tired feeling, confusion, fast heart rate, and feeling light-headed or short of breath, with a pale, blue, or gray appearance of your skin, lips, or fingernails.
An overdose of numbing medication can cause fatal side effects if too much of the medicine is absorbed through your skin and into your blood. Use the smallest amount needed.
Do not use Anbesol Gel on a child younger than 2 years old.
Before taking this medicine
Do not use Anbesol Gel if you have ever had methemoglobinemia in the past.
Do not use Anbesol Gel on a child younger than 2 years old.
An overdose of numbing medication can cause fatal side effects if too much of the medicine is absorbed through your skin and into your blood. This can happen if you apply more than the recommended dose.
Fatal overdoses have occurred when numbing medicines were used without the advice of a medical doctor (such as during a cosmetic procedure like laser hair removal). Be aware that many cosmetic procedures are performed without a medical doctor present.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:
a personal or family history of methemoglobinemia, or any genetic (inherited) enzyme deficiency;
heart disease; or
if you smoke.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
If you apply Anbesol Gel to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.
How should I use Anbesol Gel?
Use Anbesol Gel exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Your body may absorb more of Anbesol Gel if you use ...
