Orajel
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 Orajel?
Orajel contains benzocaine, a local anesthetic (numbing medication). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.
Orajel numbs the skin or surfaces inside the mouth and used for the temporary relief of pain from sore throat, canker sores, cold sores, fever blisters, minor irritation or injury of the mouth and gums.
Orajel is also use for temporary relief of sore gums due to teething in children 2 years of age and older.
Warnings
Orajel 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 benzocaine 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 Orajel on a child younger than 2 years old.
Before taking this medicine
Do not use Orajel if you have ever had methemoglobinemia in the past.
Do not use Orajel on a child younger than 2 years old.
An overdose of benzocaine 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.
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 Orajel if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
If you apply Orajel to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.
How should I use Orajel?
Use Orajel exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Read all medication guides or instruction sheets.
Your body may absorb more benzocaine if you use too much, if you apply it over large skin areas.
Use the smallest amount needed to numb the skin or relieve pain. Do not use large amounts of Orajel. Do not cover treated skin areas with plastic wrap without medical advice.
Do not use Orajel to treat large skin areas or deep puncture wounds. Avoid using the medicine on skin that is raw ...
