Pain is caused by the stimulation of free nerve endings. When the nerve endings are stimulated, sodium enters the neuron, causing depolarization of the nerve and subsequent initiation of an action potential. The action potential is propagated down the nerve toward the central nervous system, which interprets this as pain. Benzocaine acts to inhibit the voltage-dependent sodium channels (VDSCs) on the nerve membrane, stopping the propagation of the action potential.

Benzocaine is used as a key ingredient in numerous pharmaceuticals:Over the counter throat lozenges such as Cepacol.Some glycerol-based ear medications for use in removing excess wax as well as relieving ear conditions such as otitis media and swimmers ear.Some previous diet products such as Ayds.Some condoms designed to prevent premature ejaculation. Benzocaine largely inhibits sensitivity on the penis, and can allow for an erection to be maintained longer (in a continuous act) by delaying ejaculation. Conversely, an erection will also fade faster if stimulus is interrupted.Benzocaine mucoadhesive patches have been used in reducing orthodontic pain.


Benzocaine is a kind of fat-soluble surface anesthetic. Compared with several other topical anesthetics such as lidocaine, tetracaine, its intensity is small, so it won't make people feel discomfort because of the anesthesia effect on the mucosa. It is a very strong fat-soluble drugs with easy combination with mucosa or skin and not easy penetration into body to produce toxicity.


Application

Benzocaine can be used as the raw materials of Otho imitation, Orthocaine and Procaine; at the same time, it is used as a topical anesthetics in medicine with analgesic, antipruritic effect, mainly used for wounds, ulcers, mucosal surface anesthesia plane and hemorrhoids pain and itching. Its ointment can also be used as the lubrication of nasopharyngeal catheter, sudden pain within the endoscope mirror etc.. To relief the pain and discomfort of skin itching such as minor burns, sunburn, trauma and insect bites. Ear preparation is used to reduce acute congestive, concentrated otitis externa, swimming otitis pain and itching and external ear. It is also effective for toothache, sore throat, oral ulcer, hemorrhoids, anal fissure, pruritus vulvae. Benzocaine can be usded as male genital desensitizer to make ejaculation slow or anesthesia lubricant of endoscopic tube and catheter.