benzocaine 20 %-menthol 0.5 % topical aerosol

Generic name:
Benzocaine/menthol spray - topical

Pronunciation
(BEN-zoe-kane/MEN-thol)

Brand name(s)
Dermoplast

This product is used on the skin for the short-term relief of pain and itching from certain skin conditions (such as sunburn, scrapes, minor cuts/burns/skin irritation, insect bites). Benzocaine is a local anesthetic that works by causing temporary numbness/loss of feeling in the skin. Menthol works by causing the skin to feel cool and then warm to distract you from feeling the pain and itching.

If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.

Before use, clean and dry the affected area as directed. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area of skin as directed, not more than 3 to 4 times a day.

Hold the can 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) from the affected area and spray on the skin. Do not spray on your face or in your mouth. If you need to apply this medication to your face, spray it into the palm of your hand and gently apply it to your face.

Do not use on large areas of the body, cover the area with waterproof bandages or plastic, or apply heat unless directed to do so by your doctor. Doing so may increase the risk of serious side effects.

Wash your hands right after use unless you are treating an area on the hands. Avoid getting the product in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If the medication gets in these areas, rinse right away with plenty of water.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not use more of this product, use it more often, or use it longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

If your condition lasts for more than 7 days, gets worse, gets better and then comes back again in a few days, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Temporary redness, stinging, or irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including:

• slow/shallow breathing
• slow/irregular heartbeat
• seizures

This medication has rarely caused a very serious (possibly fatal) blood disorder (methemoglobinemia). This effect is more likely if you have breathing problems, certain diseases of the blood, or if you smoke (see also Precautions section). The symptoms of this disorder may occur within minutes to a couple of hours after using this medication. Stop using this medication and get medical help right away if you develop any symptoms of methemoglobinemia, including:

• pale/bluish/gray skin
• unusual tiredness
• shortness of breath
• fast heartbeat
• dizziness
• headache
• confusion

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• new or worsening itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to benzocaine or menthol; or to other "caine" anesthetics (such as procaine); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• certain blood disorders (G6PD deficiency, pyruvate kinase deficiency, hemoglobin-M disease, NADH-methemoglobin reductase deficiency)
• breathing problems (such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, smoking history)

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include: trouble breathing, blue/gray lips or skin, irregular heartbeat, seizures.

Keep all regular medical and lab appointments.

Do not spray on leather, clothing, or fabric as this product may stain or discolor them.

Not applicable.

Store at room temperature away from heat, open flame, or fire. Do not smoke while using. The contents of this container are flammable and under pressure. Do not burn or puncture the container. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.