Indications
Butamben (butyl aminobenzoate) is a local anaesthetic applied to the skin or to the lining of the mouth and throat. It is used, usually in combination with other numbing agents, to relieve pain and itching from minor burns, sunburn, insect bites, minor cuts and skin irritation, and to numb the mouth or throat before minor dental or medical procedures.
How It Works
Butamben blocks sodium channels in nerve endings, which stops pain signals from travelling to the brain. It does not dissolve well in water, so it stays where it is applied and gives a fairly long lasting numbing effect on the surface.
Dosage and Administration
For external use only. Apply a thin layer or a short spray to the affected area, usually not more than 3 to 4 times a day, or exactly as directed on the label or by your doctor or dentist. Do not use on large areas of skin or for long periods. When used in the mouth or throat by a dentist or doctor, they decide the amount. Do not eat or drink until feeling returns to the mouth or throat.
Interactions
- Using other local anaesthetics such as Benzocaine or Lidocaine at the same time increases the risk of side effects.
- Medicines such as Dapsone, nitrates and some sulfonamides raise the risk of methaemoglobinaemia (a blood problem where oxygen is not carried well).
- It may reduce the effect of sulfonamide antibiotics.
Contraindications
- Allergy to butamben or to other ester type local anaesthetics such as Benzocaine or Procaine, or to para aminobenzoic acid (PABA).
- Large open wounds, deep burns or badly damaged skin.
- History of methaemoglobinaemia.
- Not for use in the eyes.
Side Effects
Possible: stinging, burning, redness or itching where applied, and allergic contact skin reactions. Rare but serious: methaemoglobinaemia, causing grey or bluish skin, lips or nails, headache, tiredness, fast heartbeat and shortness of breath; and severe allergic reactions.
Get urgent medical help if the skin, lips or nails turn grey or blue, you feel short of breath, dizzy or confused, have a fast heartbeat, or develop swelling of the face or throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information. Occasional use on small areas is unlikely to be harmful, but use only if a doctor or pharmacist advises it during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not apply to the nipple area.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not use on large areas, broken skin or for longer than directed, as more medicine can be absorbed. Numbness of the mouth or throat can make swallowing difficult and raises the risk of choking or biting the tongue. Use extra caution in infants, older people and people with heart or lung disease or G6PD deficiency. Stop using and see a doctor if symptoms last more than 7 days or get worse.
Overdose
Using too much, or swallowing it, may cause methaemoglobinaemia, dizziness, drowsiness, slow breathing, seizures or heart rhythm problems. Seek emergency medical care.
Therapeutic Class
Local anaesthetic, ester type (topical)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Spray cans should be kept away from heat and flames and not pierced.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.