What should I do to avoid benzocaine allergy?
Read product labels and avoid products that contain benzocaine or any of its alternative names. Avoid related substances that you may also be allergic to. This includes PABA, meta-aminobenzoic acid or benzoic acid local anaesthetics (both topical and injectable forms), paraphenylenediamine found in permanent hair dyes, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, PABA-based suncreens, and thiazide-related diuretics. Any products that are labelled ‘anaesthetic’ or ‘caine’ should be suspected of containing benzocaine or a related compound. These should be avoided. Ask your pharmacist for advice and a suitable alternative. Alert your doctor and dentist to the fact that you have an allergy to benzocaine. Your dermatologist may have further specific advice, particularly if you are highly sensitive.
