Benzalkonium / Benzocaine
Benzalkonium/Benzocaine is a topical medication combining an antiseptic agent with a local anesthetic. It is commonly used to relieve pain and discomfort from minor skin irritations, insect bites, sunburn, and sore throats while helping to prevent infection. The benzalkonium chloride component provides antimicrobial protection while benzocaine delivers temporary numbing relief.
Topical antiseptic-anesthetic combination for relieving pain and preventing infection in minor skin and throat irritations.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1009089
- Generic
- Benzalkonium / Benzocaine
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used for temporary relief of pain and itching from minor burns, sunburn, insect bites, poison ivy, and skin irritations; also found in some throat lozenges for sore throat discomfort.
Benzalkonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound that acts as a topical antiseptic by disrupting bacterial cell membranes. Benzocaine is a local anesthetic that blocks nerve signals in the applied area, temporarily numbing sensation.
For external use only; avoid contact with eyes and open wounds. Should not be used on large areas of body or broken skin. Not recommended for use in children under 2 years without medical supervision. Rare risk of methemoglobinemia with benzocaine, especially in young children.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy