Benzocaine (Into the ear)

Introduction:

Benzocaine (BEN-zoe-kane)

Treats pain and itching in the ear caused by ear infections, swimmer's ear, and other ear problems.

Brand Name(s):

Omedia, Americaine

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to benzocaine. You should not use this medicine if you have a ruptured eardrum or any discharge or drainage from your ear. Do not give this medicine to a child less than 1 year of age.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Drop

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • Use this medicine only in your ear.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • You may warm the drops by holding the unopened bottle in your hands for a few minutes.
  • Remove the cap. Do not let the tip of the dropper touch anything, including your ear.
  • Lie down or tilt your head to the side. For a child, gently pull the child's earlobe down and back to straighten the child's ear canal. For an adult, gently pull the earlobe up and back to straighten the ear canal.
  • Drop the prescribed number of drops into the ear. Insert a cotton ball into your ear and keep the ear tilted up for a few minutes.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Keep the bottle closed when you are not using it. Store it at room temperature, away from light and heat. Do not freeze.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • You should not use other ear medicines while using this medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
  • Do not use this medicine for longer than your doctor tells you to. Doing so may cover up a more serious ear problem.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Severe pain, tenderness, rash, swelling, or redness of your ear.
  • Trouble breathing, bluish-colored skin or lips.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Itching or burning in your ear.
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