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Anbesol Cold Sore Side Effects

Generic name: benzocaine topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 18, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Anbesol Cold Sore Side Effects associated with benzocaine topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Anbesol Cold Sore.

Applies to benzocaine topical: cream, gel/jelly, lotion, lozenge/troche, ointment, paste, powder for suspension, solution, spray, swab.

Other dosage forms:

Serious side effects of Anbesol Cold Sore

Along with its needed effects, benzocaine topical (the active ingredient contained in Anbesol Cold Sore) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking benzocaine topical:

Incidence not known

  • bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms
  • dark urine
  • difficulty breathing
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • headache
  • high fever
  • nausea
  • pale skin
  • rapid heart rate
  • sore throat
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vomiting
  • worsening of pain, redness, swelling, or irritation in or around the mouth

Managing side effects (general information)

For healthcare professionals

Applies to benzocaine topical: compounding powder, mucous membrane gel, mucous membrane liquid, mucous membrane lozenge, mucous membrane paste, mucous membrane powder for reconstitution, mucous membrane spray, mucous membrane swab, mucous membrane tablet disintegrating, rectal ointment, rectal suppository, topical cream, topical gel, topical liquid, topical lotion, topical ointment, topical spray, topical stick, topical swab.

Dermatologic adverse events

Dermatologic side effects have included contact dermatitis and urticaria.[Ref]

Local

Local side effects have included burning and stinging.[Ref]

Other

Other side effects have included edema.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included angioedema.

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects have included methemoglobinemia. FDA continues to receive reports of methemoglobinemia from postmarketing reporting.[Ref]

References

1. (2005) "Product Information. Solarcaine Plus Aloe (benzocaine topical)." Schering-Plough Healthcare Products

2. (2005) "Product Information. Americaine Hemorrhoidal (benzocaine topical)." Novartis Consumer Health

3. (2005) "Product Information. Dermoplast (benzocaine topical)." MedTech Inc

4. (2005) "Product Information. Outgro Pain Relief (benzocaine topical)." MedTech Inc

5. (2005) "Product Information. Cepacol Lozenges (cetylpyridinium topical)." GlaxoSmithKline Inc

6. (2005) "Product Information. Chloraseptic (benzocaine topical)." Procter and Gamble Pharmaceuticals

7. (2005) "Product Information. Vagisil Feminine Cream (benzocaine topical)." Combe Inc

8. (2005) "Product Information. Lanacane (benzocaine topical)." Combe Inc

9. (2005) "Product Information. Lanacane with Aloe (benzocaine topical)." Combe Inc

10. (2005) "Product Information. Hurricaine (benzocaine topical)." Beutlich

11. Throm MJ, Stevens MD, Hansen C (2007) "Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia in two patients: interdisciplinary collaboration, management, and near misses." Pharmacotherapy, 27, p. 1206-14

Further information

Anbesol Cold Sore side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

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