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

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Aug 15, 2023.

What is Lanacane?

Lanacane contains benzocaine, a local anesthetic (numbing medication). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body.

Lanacane is used to reduce pain or discomfort caused by minor skin irritations, insect bites, poison ivy, sunburn, ingrown toenails, and many other sources of minor pain on a surface of the body.

Warnings

Do not use Lanacane 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. Use the smallest amount needed.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use Lanacane if you have ever had methemoglobinemia in the past.

Do not use Lanacane on a child younger than 2 years old.

An overdose of numbing medication 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.

Fatal overdoses have occurred when numbing medicines were used without the advice of a medical doctor (such as during a cosmetic procedure like laser hair removal). Be aware that many cosmetic procedures are performed without a medical doctor present.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Lanacane is safe to use if you have:

• a personal or family history of methemoglobinemia, or any genetic (inherited) enzyme deficiency;

• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;

• heart disease; or

• if you smoke.

Ask a doctor before using Lanacane if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you apply Lanacane to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.

How should I use Lanacane?

Use Lanacane exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

Your body may absorb more of benzocaine if you use too much, if you apply it over large skin areas, or if you apply heat, bandages, or plastic wrap to treated skin areas. Skin that is cut or irritated may also absorb more topical medication than healthy skin.

Use the smallest amount needed to numb the skin or relieve pain. Do not use large amounts of Lanacane. Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or plastic wrap without medical advice.

Do not use Lanacane to treat large skin areas or deep puncture wounds. Avoid using the medicine on skin that is raw or blistered, such as a severe burn or abrasion.

To treat minor skin conditions, apply a thin layer of Lanacane to the affected area. If using the spray, hold the container 6 to 12 inches away from the skin. Do not spray this medication onto your face. Spray it instead on your hands and then rub it onto the face, avoiding contact with your eyes.

Clean the area with soap and water before applying this medicine.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse within the first 7 days of using Lanacane. Also call your doctor if your symptoms had cleared up but then came back.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Related/similar drugs

acetaminophen, tramadol, cyclobenzaprine, hydroxyzine, naproxen, oxycodone, Tylenol, diphenhydramine, diphenhydramine topical, hydrocortisone topical

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Lanacane is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of benzocaine applied to the skin can cause life-threatening side effects such as uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), coma, slowed breathing, or respiratory failure (breathing stops).

What should I avoid while using Lanacane?

Lanacane is for use only on the surface of your body. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes.

Lanacane side effects

Lanacane should not be used in the mouth. Other products containing benzocaine are used in the mouth and 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). This condition may occur after only one use of benzocaine or after several uses.

Signs and symptoms may occur within minutes or up to 2 hours after using benzocaine in the mouth or throat. GET EMERGENCY MEDICAL HELP IF YOU HAVE:

• a headache, tiredness, confusion;

• fast heartbeats;

• feeling light-headed or short of breath; and

• pale, blue, or gray appearance of your skin, lips, or fingernails.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Lanacane: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Lanacane and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or sensitivity where the medicine is applied;

• swelling, warmth, or redness; or

• oozing, blistering, or any signs of infection.

Common Lanacane side effects may include:

• mild stinging, burning, or itching where the medicine is applied;

• skin tenderness or redness; or

• dry white flakes where the medicine was applied.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Lanacane?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Lanacane only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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