Methemoglobinemia
Methemoglobinemia is a rare adverse effect that can occur with the use of topical benzocaine. It can cause reduced oxygen being carried to the tissues <1>. This can result in a range of signs and symptoms, including a bluish skin discoloration, headache, nausea, and breathing difficulties <2>. These signs and symptoms may appear within 20 to 60 minutes or can be delayed up to 2 hours after using benzocaine <3>. If left untreated, methemoglobinemia can cause more severe problems such as coma or even death <1,3>.
To put things into perspective, for every 7000 patients (for all ages) using benzocaine, there has been a case of methemoglobinemia. Because babies have a higher chance of developing this adverse event, you must be very cautious when using topical benzocaine <3>. Make sure that you are only using a very small amount only as needed for temporary relief from teething pain <2>. If you notice any of the previously mentioned signs and symptoms, seek emergency medical attention!
To put things into perspective, for every 7000 patients (for all ages) using benzocaine, there has been a case of methemoglobinemia. Because babies have a higher chance of developing this adverse event, you must be very cautious when using topical benzocaine <3>. Make sure that you are only using a very small amount only as needed for temporary relief from teething pain <2>. If you notice any of the previously mentioned signs and symptoms, seek emergency medical attention!
References:
1. Wright RO, et al. Methemoglobinemia: Etiology, pharmacology, and clinical management. Ann Emerg Med 1999;34:646-656.
2. Bourassa M. Patient Self-Care. Chapter 87: Teething. 2nd ed. Toronto, ON: Canadian Pharmacists Association; 2010:851-856.
3. Lehr J, et al. Benzocane-Induced Methemoglobinemia in the Pediatric Population. Journal of Pediatric Nursing 2012;27:583-588.
Images:
http://www.gsmnation.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Emergency-dentist.jpg
1. Wright RO, et al. Methemoglobinemia: Etiology, pharmacology, and clinical management. Ann Emerg Med 1999;34:646-656.
2. Bourassa M. Patient Self-Care. Chapter 87: Teething. 2nd ed. Toronto, ON: Canadian Pharmacists Association; 2010:851-856.
3. Lehr J, et al. Benzocane-Induced Methemoglobinemia in the Pediatric Population. Journal of Pediatric Nursing 2012;27:583-588.
Images:
http://www.gsmnation.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Emergency-dentist.jpg