Indications
Orajel generically known as Benzocaine – non-Rx is topical anesthetic used to relieve pain and discomfort caused by several different types of mouth ailments. Its active ingredient is Benzocaine. Benzocaine is used to numb the skin or surfaces inside the mouth, nose, throat, vagina, or rectum to lessen the pain of inserting a medical instrument such as a tube or speculum.
Orajel gel is over-the-counter analgesic ointments used to relieve pain caused by conditions such as sunburn or other minor burns, insect bites or stings, soreness, or injury. Benzocaine is also used short-term to relieve pain from minor mouth problems such as toothache, canker sores, sore gums/throat, or mouth/gum injury.
Uses and Dosage
Orajel comes in the form of tablet to apply a pea-size amount of product to the affected area. Use it up to 4 times daily or as directed by a physician or healthcare provider. Allow gel to dry 30-60 seconds into protective film. Do not eat for one hour following use.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Orajel (Benzocaine – non-Rx):
- Blue
- Confusion
- Fast heartbeats
- Feeling light-headed or short of breath
- Gray appearance of your skin, lips, or fingernails
- Headache
- Nausea
- Pale skin
- Tiredness
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Orajel (Benzocaine – non-Rx):
- Bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms
- Dark urine
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- High fever
- Rapid heart rate
- Sore throat
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Worsening of pain, redness, swelling, or irritation in or around the mouth
Form and Strength
Orajel (Benzocaine – non-Rx) is available in the following forms and strength:
Orajel: Gel
- 10%
Caution
- The use of benzocaine to treat infants and children younger than 2 years old is not recommended. The warning advises against using over-the-counter oral drug products containing benzocaine to treat teething pain in infants and young children.
- Benzocaine is contraindicated for patients with severe allergic reactions to ester-type local anesthetics.
- Topical Benzocaine is for use only on the surface of your body, or just inside the mouth, vagina, or rectum. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes.
- Avoid swallowing the gel, while applying it to your gums or the inside of your mouth.
- Benzocaine should not be used in individuals with heart arrhythmias, a history of G6PD deficiency, and decreased lung function, as several reports have shown that patients with underlying medical conditions such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), emphysema.
- Benzocaine oral drug products should only be used to relieve pain from minor mouth problems and should not be used for teething pain or use on large areas of the body.
- Benzocaine can cause methemoglobinemia, a rare but serious condition in which the amount of oxygen carried through the blood stream is greatly reduced. Signs of methemoglobinemia can start as quickly as 1 minute or as late as 2 hours after taking a medication with benzocaine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does Orajel numb for?
Orajel lasts for 15-20 minutes at full effect, so that's how long you can expect total numbness in the treated area. The effect will persist at a reduced level for several hours after that, giving you some continued relief.
How many times a day can I take Orajel?
Use up to 4 times daily. Do not use continuously. If toothache persists, consult your dentist. Not for use in children under the age of 12 years.
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Orajel gel?
Avoid eating within 1 hour after using benzocaine topically on your gums or inside your mouth.
Resources
- https://reference.medscape.com/drug/benzocaine-343361
- https://www.drugs.com/cons/orajel.html#dosage
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22015737/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541053/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benzocaine-topical-application-route/description/drg-20072913
- https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/risk-serious-and-potentially-fatal-blood-disorder-prompts-fda-action-oral-over-counter-benzocaine
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