Benzocaine / Butamben / Tetracaine
Benzocaine/Butamben/Tetracaine is a combination topical anesthetic used to temporarily numb mucous membranes in the mouth and throat. This triple-anesthetic formulation provides rapid-onset local anesthesia for various medical and diagnostic procedures. It is typically applied directly to the affected area by healthcare professionals.
A topical anesthetic combination used to numb mucous membranes during medical procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 690247
- Generic
- Benzocaine / Butamben / Tetracaine
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- Cetacaine
- 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 to produce local anesthesia of the mucous membranes for procedures such as intubation, endoscopy, bronchoscopy, and other examinations of the mouth, throat, and respiratory tract. May also be used for relief of pain from minor oral conditions.
The combination contains three local anesthetics that work by blocking nerve signal transmission in the applied area. Benzocaine provides rapid onset of action, while tetracaine extends the duration of effect. Butamben contributes additional anesthetic properties.
For topical use only on mucous membranes; not for injection. Should be used with caution in patients with certain heart conditions, methemoglobinemia, or who are pregnant/nursing. Rare but serious methemoglobinemia has been reported with benzocaine-containing products. Dosage and duration should be minimized to reduce risk of systemic absorption.
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