Index
It is a colorless liquid with a pungent taste and a slight odor.
It is a topical agent of the scabicide and pediculicide types. This medicine treats lice, the tiny insects that live and irritate the scalp.
Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol used as a preservative, as an active ingredient in the treatment of lice, and as a solvent.
Chemical formula
- C7H8O.
Presentation
- In 5% topical solution.
Indications
It is used as a local anesthetic to reduce pain associated with lidocaine injection.
In addition, it is used in the manufacture of other benzyl compounds, as a pharmaceutical aid, and in perfumery and flavoring.
Benzyl alcohol is a prescription medicine used as an antiparasitic medicine for the skin.
Benzyl alcohol topical is used to treat head lice in people between 6 months and 60 years.
Mechanism of action
The mechanism of action of benzyl alcohol prevents the lice from closing their respiratory spiracles, which in turn allows the lotion to clog the spiracles and cause the lice to suffocate on the head.
Dose
Apply lotion to dry hair, use enough to thoroughly saturate hair and scalp, and rinse with water after a few minutes.
Due to the mechanism of action of benzyl alcohol, lice are less likely to develop resistance to the drug.
Since benzyl alcohol does not kill lice eggs, a second treatment is necessary, one week after the first.
Side effects
Benzyl alcohol can cause irritation, itching, redness, tingling, or numbness at the application site.
Eye irritation can occur if the medicine gets into the eyes.
Although unlikely with topical application, intravenous products containing benzyl alcohol have been associated with neonatal gag syndrome, including shortness of breath, metabolic acidosis, and hypotension.
As a result of the risk of neonatal gag syndrome, this drug should not be administered to infants younger than six months.
Severe allergic reactions to this drug are rare.
However, urgent medical attention should be sought if any symptoms occur, including rash, itching, swelling, especially of the face, tongue, and throat, severe dizziness, and shortness of breath may also occur.
Warnings and Contraindications
Before using benzyl alcohol, you should inform your doctor if you are allergic to this drug or any of its components or if you have any other allergies.
Constant or forceful scratching of the skin/scalp can lead to a bacterial skin infection. Tell your doctor right away if you develop worsening redness or pus.
Children are more sensitive to the side effects of the medicine.
In cases of premature babies, the doctor should be told so that he can decide if the baby is old enough to use this medicine.
Warnings
This medicine contains benzyl alcohol.
It must be kept out of the reach of children. In cases of overdose, see a doctor immediately.
Precautions
- This medicine is not ovicidal; it does not kill the eggs.
- It may cause contact dermatitis.
- It should not be administered to newborns.
- Eye exposure should be avoided.
- The use in children should be done under the supervision of an adult.
- The safety of the lotion has not been established in patients older than 60 years.
- The gasping syndrome has been reported when used in neonates.
- If the condition does not improve within seven days or swelling or rash develops, the doctor should be notified.
- Benzyl alcohol can be used during pregnancy.
- Animal studies show no risk, but human studies are not available or did not show any chance.
However, during pregnancy, this drug should be used only when necessary, and the risk-benefit ratio is favorable for the baby and the mother.
The excretion of benzyl alcohol in human milk is unknown.
Benzyl alcohol should be used with caution if you are breastfeeding.
