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Benzocaine is a medication used to numb or treat pain. It is found in many over-the-counter products. The label on the product can tell you whether it contains benzocaine. Some examples are:
 Teething rings are one alternative to using medications with benzocaine. |
Throat lozenges and sprays, such Cepacol
Products with benzocaine are safe for most people when you follow the directions on the label or from your doctor.
Young children, and some adults, who swallow benzocaine are at risk for methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious illness in which not enough oxygen is carried in the blood. Because of this, the FDA does not recommend giving benzocaine to children 2 and younger, unless it recommended by a health care professional.
Most people who swallow benzocaine are fine.
However, swallowing even a small amount can cause methemoglobinemia, and young children are especially at risk. Symptoms of methemoglobinemia can include:
In severe cases, someone with methemoglobinemia can have seizures or go into a coma.
It can take just a few minutes or several hours for methemoglobinemia to appear.
Always call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222 if a child swallows benzocaine.
If a young child has swallowed benzocaine, or if you are concerned, call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222, chat online or text POISON to 85511. We will help you figure out if the child needs to go to the hospital or can be treated at home.
| If someone has passed out or is not breathing, call 911 right away. |
The FDA recommends not giving benzocaine products to children under 2 because of the risk of methemoglobinemia.
Keep benzocaine products up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
If your child is teething, see our related blog post with suggestions to help sooth their pain.
Last Updated: Friday March 4th 2016
