Indications 

Orajel is composed of benzocaine, a local anesthetic agent that functions by obstructing nerve impulses throughout the body. As a result of its pharmacological action, Orajel numbs the skin or various oral surfaces and is employed to provide temporary relief from a range of painful conditions, such as canker sores, cold sores, fever blisters, minor mouth and gum irritation or injury, and sore throat.  

Orajel may be utilized for the temporary relief of sore gums due to teething in children 2 years of age and older. 

Uses and Dosage 

To ensure optimal use of Orajel, kindly adhere to the precise dosage and administration information stated on the medication label or as prescribed by your physician. Read all accompanying medication guides or instruction sheets. 

If Orajel is applied over significant skin areas, excessive quantities may be absorbed by the body. Only the minimum amount required to relieve pain or numb the skin be used. Please avoid the application of excessive amounts of Orajel, and do not cover treated skin areas with plastic wrap, except under medical supervision. 

Orajel is not intended for the treatment of large skin areas or deep puncture wounds. Furthermore, it should not be applied to raw or blistered skin, such as severe burns or abrasions. 

If your symptoms persist or deteriorate during the initial 7 days of using Orajel, we advise that you consult with your physician. If your symptoms had previously resolved but then returned, kindly reach out to your healthcare provider. 

If you are treating a sore throat, and your pain becomes severe or lasts longer than 2 days, particularly if you develop a fever, headache, skin rash, swelling, nausea, vomiting, cough, or breathing difficulties, please contact your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Orajel is a local anesthetic that can cause methemoglobinemia, a potentially life-threatening condition in which the oxygen in your body tissues becomes dangerously low. This condition can occur after only one use of benzocaine or after several uses. Signs and symptoms may occur within minutes or up to 2 hours after using Orajel in the mouth or throat. Here are some things you should know: 

Allergic Reactions

Signs of methemoglobinemia or an allergic reaction to Orajel require emergency medical help. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following: 

• Headache, tiredness, confusion 
• Fast heartbeats 
• Feeling light-headed or short of breath 
• Pale, blue, or gray appearance of your skin, lips, or fingernails 
• Hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Stop using Orajel and call your doctor if you experience any of the following serious side effects: 

• Severe burning, stinging, or sensitivity where the medicine is applied 
• Swelling, warmth, or redness 
• Oozing, blistering, or any signs of infection 

Common Side Effects

Common Orajel side effects that are usually mild include: 

• Stinging, burning, or itching where the medicine is applied 
• Skin tenderness or redness 
• Dry white flakes where the medicine was applied 

Caution 

The use of Orajel in the mouth may result in a potentially life-threatening condition called methemoglobinemia, which is characterized by dangerously low oxygen levels in body tissues. If you have a history of methemoglobinemia, avoid using this medication altogether.  

In the event that you experience symptoms of methemoglobinemia, such as headache, tiredness, confusion, fast heart rate, feeling light-headed or short of breath, and a pale, blue or gray appearance of the skin, lips, or fingernails, seek emergency medical help immediately. 

Avoid overdosing on benzocaine as it can lead to fatal side effects if too much of the medicine is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. Therefore, use the smallest amount necessary to achieve the desired result. Orajel should not be used on children under the age of 2 years.