(benz al KOE nee um KLOR ide & BEN zoe kane)
Topical treatment of cold sores
Hypersensitivity to benzalkonium chloride, benzocaine, other ester-type local anesthetics, or any component of the formulation; ophthalmic use; use over a large area of body or >3 times daily; longer than 1 week unless directed by healthcare provider
Cold sore: Topical: Apply single dose to cold sore with applicator
Cold sore: Topical: Children >2 years and Adolescents: Refer to adult dosing.
No dosage adjustment provided in manufacturers labeling(has not been studied).
No dosage adjustment provided in manufacturers labeling(has not been studied).
Topical: Prior to administration, clean lotions, ointments, or cosmetics from the lip using only warm water and a washcloth. Saturate the applicator with solution and apply to the cold sore. Allow a few moments for the lip to numb, then massage the solution (using the applicator) into the cold sore by rubbing firmly without damaging the skin. Avoid brushing with toothpaste or drinking fruit juices or soft drinks for at least one hour after application.
Store at room temperature. Flammable; keep away from heat and flame.
Dapsone (Topical): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Methemoglobinemia Associated Agents. Monitor therapy
Nitric Oxide: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Methemoglobinemia Associated Agents. Combinations of these agents may increase the likelihood of significant methemoglobinemia. Management: Monitor patients for signs of methemoglobinemia (e.g., hypoxia, cyanosis) when nitric oxide is used in combination with other agents associated with development of methemoglobinemia. Avoid lidocaine/prilocaine. Monitor therapy
Prilocaine: Methemoglobinemia Associated Agents may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Prilocaine. Combinations of these agents may increase the likelihood of significant methemoglobinemia. Management: Monitor patients for signs of methemoglobinemia (e.g., hypoxia, cyanosis) when prilocaine is used in combination with other agents associated with development of methemoglobinemia. Avoid lidocaine/prilocaine in infants receiving such agents. Monitor therapy
Sodium Nitrite: Methemoglobinemia Associated Agents may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Sodium Nitrite. Combinations of these agents may increase the likelihood of significant methemoglobinemia. Monitor therapy
Tetracaine (Topical): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Methemoglobinemia Associated Agents. Monitor therapy
Frequency not defined.
Dermatologic: Stinging of the skin (short-term)
Local: Local irritation
Other warnings/precautions:
- Appropriate use: For topical use only. If symptoms persist for 7-10 days after treatment then reassess.
Benzalkonium chloride is an antiseptic and disinfectant; benzocaine is an ester local anesthetic that blocks both the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses by decreasing the neuronal membranes permeability to sodium ions, which results in inhibition of depolarization with resultant blockade of conduction
- Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment. (HCAHPS: During this hospital stay, were you given any medicine that you had not taken before? Before giving you any new medicine, how often did hospital staff tell you what the medicine was for? How often did hospital staff describe possible side effects in a way you could understand?)
- Patient may experience stinging. Have patient report immediately to prescriber severe skin irritation (HCAHPS).
- Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.
Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for healthcare professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience and judgment in diagnosing, treating and advising patients.