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Benzyl Benzoate (Topical) *+

Contents of this page:

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

  • Ascabiol
  • *+ Not commercially available in the U.S. and Canada.


    Category


    Description

    Benzyl benzoate (ben-ZILL ben-ZOE-ate) is used to treat lice and scabies infestations. This medicine is believed to be absorbed by the lice and mites and to destroy them by acting on their nervous system.

    This medicine is available without a prescription; however, your doctor may have special instructions on the proper use of this medicine for your medical condition.

    Benzyl benzoate is available in the following dosage form:


    Before Using This Medicine

    If you are using this medicine without a prescription, carefully read and follow any precautions on the label. For topical benzyl benzoate, the following should be considered:

    Allergies--Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to benzyl benzoate.

    Pregnancy--Benzyl benzoate has not been reported to cause birth defects or other problems in humans. However, the manufacturer recommends that this medicine should be used by pregnant women only if it is necessary. Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you may become pregnant.

    Breast-feeding--Benzyl benzoate has not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies. However, the manufacturer recommends that breast-feeding be suspended during treatment.

    Children--Although there is no specific information comparing use of benzyl benzoate in children with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

    Older adults--Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of benzyl benzoate in the elderly with use in other age groups. However, older people may have dry skin and the medicine may make the condition worse.

    Other medical problems--The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of benzyl benzoate. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:


    Proper Use of This Medicine

    Benzyl benzoate usually comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using this medicine.

    Use this medicine only as directed. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than recommended on the label . To do so may increase the chance of absorption through the skin and the chance of side effects.

    Keep this medicine away from the eyes and other mucous membranes, such as the inside of the nose, because it may cause irritation . If you accidentally get some in your eyes, flush them thoroughly with water at once.

    Do not use benzyl benzoate on open wounds, such as cuts or sores on the skin or scalp . To do so may increase the amount of absorption, which may increase the chance of side effects.

    Your sexual partner or partners, especially, and all members of your household may need to be treated also, since the infestation may spread to persons in close contact. If these persons have not been examined for infestation or if you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

    To use this medicine for lice :

    To use this medicine for scabies :

    Immediately after using benzyl benzoate, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.

    Treatment may need to be repeated for severe infestation.

    Dosing--The dose of benzyl benzoate will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of benzyl benzoate. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

    The number of doses that you use each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you use the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using benzyl benzoate .

    Storage--To store this medicine:


    Precautions While Using This Medicine

    To prevent reinfection or spreading of the infection to other people, good health habits are required. These include the following:


    Side Effects of This Medicine

    Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

    Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

    Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

    Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.


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