Last reviewed · How we verify
Topical Benzocaine
Benzocaine is a local anesthetic that blocks sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, preventing the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses.
Benzocaine is a local anesthetic that blocks sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, preventing the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses. Used for Topical anesthesia of skin and mucous membranes, Relief of minor pain and itching from insect bites, sunburn, and minor wounds.
At a glance
| Generic name | Topical Benzocaine |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | University of Maryland, Baltimore |
| Drug class | Local anesthetic |
| Target | Voltage-gated sodium channels |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Anesthesia/Pain Management |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Benzocaine works by reversibly inhibiting sodium influx through voltage-gated sodium channels in sensory nerve fibers, which prevents depolarization and action potential generation. This numbs the local area where it is applied topically. The drug has a rapid onset and is commonly used for superficial anesthesia of skin and mucous membranes.
Approved indications
- Topical anesthesia of skin and mucous membranes
- Relief of minor pain and itching from insect bites, sunburn, and minor wounds
Common side effects
- Methemoglobinemia
- Local irritation or erythema
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Burning or stinging at application site
Key clinical trials
- A Long-term Safety and Efficacy Study Evaluating APG777 in Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE2)
- Effect of MI Paste Plus™ on Streptococcus Mutans and White Spot Lesions in Fixed Orthodontics (NA)
- DaxibotulinumtoxinA for Blepharospasm (PHASE2)
- Clinical Outcomes of Mandibular Primary Molar Extraction Using Physics Forceps in Children (NA)
- Mycological Efficacy and Safety of Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo With a Seven-Day Versus Three-Day Treatment Duration in Pityriasis Versicolor (PHASE4)
- Study Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Chloroprocaine HCl Ophthalmic Gel 3% vs Proparacaine Ophthalmic Solution 0.5% Plus Subconjunctival Lidocaine in Patients Undergoing Intravitreal Injections (PHASE4)
- Improving Postoperative Recovery: A Study of Multimodal Perineal Analgesia Protocol (MPAP) After Vaginal Surgery (PHASE4)
- TEAS for Variceal Bleeding Endoscopy in Cirrhosis (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Topical Benzocaine CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Topical Benzocaine updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- University of Maryland, Baltimore portfolio CI