benzocaine /ben″zəkān/ , an ester-type, local anesthetic agent derived from aminobenzoic acid that is most useful when applied topically. It is used as an adjunct in sedation for passage of the fiberoptic scope for esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and in many over-the-counter compounds for pruritus and pain. In dentistry it is applied topically to oral tissues before the administration of local anesthesia. Benzocaine has a low incidence of toxicity, but sensitization to it may result from prolonged or frequent use. Topical application of benzocaine may cause methemoglobinemia in infants and small children. A minimum of 5% benzocaine is required in a compound to be effective.
