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Anbesol Gel

Generic name: benzocaine topical [BENZ-oh-kane-TOP-ik-al]
Drug class: topical anaesthetics

What is Anbesol Gel?

Anbesol Gel (which contains benzocaine) is a local anaesthetic (numbing medication). Actuating by interfering with nerve signals from within your body.Anbesol gel numbs the surface of the mouth or the surfaces of the mouth. It is used to provide temporary relief due to an irritated throat as well as canker sores, small irritations, fever blisters, or damage to the gums or mouth.Anbesol Gel shouldn't be used on children who are less than two years old.

Warnings

Anbesol gel that is used in the mouth could cause a condition where the oxygen level in the tissues of your body may get extremely low. This could lead to a fatal disease known as methemoglobinemia (met-HEEM-oh glo-bin-EE'-mee-a). Do not take this medicine if you have ever suffered from methemoglobinemia.Get urgent medical assistance if you have symptoms of METHEMOGLOBINEMIA: headache, fatigue, disorientation, fast heart rate, and feeling lightheaded or breathing a little short with a light blue or grey look to your lips, skin, or fingernails.An overdose of numbing medications may cause fatal adverse side effects if a large amount of the medication is absorbed by your skin and blood. Take only the amount you need.Do not apply Anbesol Gel to children less than 2 years old.

Before you take this drug

Avoid using Anbesol Gel if you have previously suffered from methemoglobinemia.Do not apply Anbesol Gel to children older than 2 years.A high dose of numbing medicine can trigger serious side effects if much of the medication is absorbed by your skin and blood. This can happen when you exceed the suggested dosage.Overdoses that have killed people occur when numbing drugs are administered without the guidance of a medical professional (such as in the procedure of cosmetics, such as hair removal with lasers). Be aware that a lot of procedures for cosmetics are performed without the presence of a doctor.

Consult a pharmacist or doctor to determine if this medication is suitable for use if you are:

  • An individual or family background of methemoglobinemia, an inherited enzyme deficiency
  • Asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or any other breathing disorders;
  • Heart disease
  • If you smoke.

Consult a physician before taking this medication if you are nursing or pregnant.In the event that you use Anbesol Gel on your chest, stay clear of areas that might come into contact with your baby's mouth.

How to take Anbesol Gel?

Make sure you use Anbesol Gel exactly as directed on the label or as directed by your physician. Check all medication guidebooks or instructions.The body could take in more Anbesol Gel if you use excessive amounts, for example, if you apply it to large areas of your skin or apply bandages, heat, or wraps of plastic to affected skin areas. Skin that has been cut or inflamed may absorb more topical medications than skin that is healthy.Utilise the smallest amount to numb the skin and reduce discomfort. Avoid using large quantities of Anbesol Gel. Don't cover the treated areas with bandages or wrap them with plastic wrap unless you have medical guidance.Don't use Anbesol Gel to treat large skin areas or puncture wounds. Avoid applying the medication to skin that is scaly or blistered.Contact your physician if your symptoms don't improve or become worse in the first seven days of the use of Anbesol Gel. You should also contact your doctor if you feel your symptoms were cleared but then returned.If you're treating a sore throat, contact an appointment with your physician if discomfort is intense or lasts for more than two days, especially in the event that you develop headache, fever, skin rash or swelling, vomiting, cough, or breathing difficulties.Storage at room temperature is free of heat and moisture. Avoid freezing.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Since Anbesol Gel can be taken only when it is needed, you might not be following a dose schedule. Don't miss any dose when it's getting close to the next dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention immediately, contact medical attention immediately, or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. A high dose of benzocaine that is applied to the skin could cause serious side effects like irregular heartbeats, seizures (convulsions), and a reduced breathing rate and breathing problems (breathing ceases).

What should be avoided?

Eat no food within one hour after applying Anbesol Gel, either on your gums or in your mouth.Anbesol Gel is for use only on the outside of your body or in the mouth. Do not get this medication into your eyes. Be careful not to swallow the gel when placing it on your gums or the internal part of your mouth. The mouth spray or oral lozenge can be swallowed slowly during usage.

Side effects of Anbesol Gel

Anbesol gel that is used in the mouth can cause a condition where oxygen levels in the tissues of your body can get extremely low. It is a risky disease known as methemoglobinemia (met-HEEM-oh glo-bin-EE'mee-a). This can happen after just one dose of benzocaine or after a number of uses.

The symptoms and signs can manifest within a matter of minutes or 2 hours after applying Anbesol Gel inside the throat or mouth. Reach out for emergency medical help if:

  • A headache, tiredness, or confusion;
  • Fast heartbeats;
  • Feeling lightheaded or weak of breath and
  • The pale, blue, or grey appearance of your lips, skin, or fingernails

Take immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, Anbesol. Hives and breathing issues or swelling on lips, face or tongue should all be seen as potential warning signals.

Stop taking Anbesol Gel and call your doctor immediately if you are suffering from:

  • Intense burning, stinging, or sensitivity when the medication is injected;
  • The sensation of warmth, swelling, or redness;
  • Bleeding, blisters, or any other sign of infection.

Common side effects of anbesol gel include:

  • Small burning, mild stinging, or itching wherever the medicine is applied.
  • Skin redness or tenderness;
  • Dry white flakes on which the medication was applied.

This list doesn't contain an exhaustive compilation of side effects. Others could happen. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction with other drugs

Skin care products are unlikely to be affected by any other medications you take. However, there are many drugs that interfere with one another. Be sure to inform your health professionals about any medications you take, such as prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies.