Beer And Orajel: A Safe Mix?

Orajel is a topical treatment for the mouth and gums that can be used to relieve pain from minor mouth problems. It is available in medicated and non-medicated formulations, with the former containing benzocaine, a local anesthetic that blocks nerve signals in the body. While Orajel is generally safe for use, it is important to follow safety precautions and consult a doctor or pharmacist to ensure it is suitable for your specific circumstances.

One of the precautions to be aware of when using Orajel is that it may interact with alcohol. Orajel Maximum Strength Toothache, for example, has a major drug interaction with ethanol, which can cause serious side effects that affect the liver. It is therefore important to consult a doctor before using Orajel with alcohol, and to follow the instructions on the label, which advise against eating or drinking for at least an hour after application.

Orajel is unsafe for children under 2

Orajel is a topical treatment for the mouth and gums that can be used to relieve pain associated with minor mouth problems. It is available as a medicated or non-medicated formulation. Medicated formulations of Orajel contain benzocaine and are intended for use by adults and children over the age of 12.

However, Orajel is unsafe for children under 2 years of age due to the presence of benzocaine, a local anesthetic that can cause methemoglobinemia. Methemoglobinemia is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the amount of oxygen carried in the bloodstream. Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds, as well as shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness, and a rapid heart rate.

In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a safety announcement advising consumers of the potential danger of using products containing benzocaine in children under 2 years of age due to the risk of methemoglobinemia. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also advises against using benzocaine for teething pain in children under 2.

Non-medicated formulations of Orajel, such as Orajel Baby, do not contain benzocaine and are marketed for use during teething. However, the AAP discourages their use as they wash out of the baby's mouth within minutes and may present safety concerns. Instead, the AAP recommends using teething rings made of firm rubber or gently massaging the child's gums to relieve symptoms.

Orajel can be dangerous if ingested

Orajel is a topical treatment for the mouth and gums that may be used to relieve pain associated with minor mouth problems. It is available as a medicated or non-medicated formulation. The medicated formulations contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in the body.

While Orajel can be an effective treatment for minor mouth issues, it is important to recognize that it can be dangerous if ingested. Here are some reasons why:

Methemoglobinemia

Orajel use has been associated with methemoglobinemia, a potentially life-threatening condition. This condition affects how red blood cells deliver oxygen throughout the body, leading to dangerously low oxygen levels in body tissues. Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds; shortness of breath; fatigue; headache; lightheadedness; and a rapid heart rate. These symptoms can occur within minutes to two hours of using Orajel and require immediate medical attention.

Overdose Risks

An overdose of Orajel can occur if too much of the medicine is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. This can have fatal side effects, including a pale, blue, or gray appearance of the skin, lips, or fingernails; uneven heartbeats; seizures; coma; slowed breathing; and respiratory failure. It is crucial to follow the recommended dosage and use the smallest amount necessary to numb the affected area.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to Orajel, which can be life-threatening. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If these symptoms occur, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Other Side Effects

In addition to the risks mentioned above, Orajel can cause other side effects, such as severe burning, stinging, or sensitivity at the application site. It may also cause swelling, warmth, redness, oozing, blistering, or signs of infection. While these side effects may be less severe, they can still be uncomfortable and may require discontinuing the use of Orajel.

In conclusion, while Orajel can be a helpful treatment for minor mouth issues, it is important to recognize the potential dangers associated with ingesting the product. Always follow the instructions and warnings provided with the medication, and seek medical advice if you have any concerns or experience any adverse effects.

Orajel may cause an allergic reaction

Orajel is a topical treatment for the mouth and gums that may be used to relieve pain associated with minor mouth problems. It is available as a medicated or non-medicated formulation. The medicated formulations contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in the body.

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe dizziness

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Orajel can be used to treat minor mouth problems

Orajel is a topical treatment for the mouth and gums that can be used to treat minor mouth problems. It is available in medicated and non-medicated formulations. The medicated version contains benzocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the skin and surfaces inside the mouth, providing temporary pain relief. It is suitable for adults and children over the age of 12, and for children aged 2 to 12 under medical supervision. Orajel can be effective in relieving pain caused by minor mouth irritations, such as canker sores, cold sores, fever blisters, and gum injuries.

The non-medicated Orajel formulations, such as Orajel Baby, are free from benzocaine and other potentially harmful ingredients like artificial colors, menthol, and eugenol (clove oil). However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages their use during teething as they wash out of the baby's mouth quickly and may pose safety risks. Instead, the AAP recommends using teething rings made of firm rubber or gently massaging the baby's gums.

Orajel is available in various forms, including gels, creams, swabs, liquids, and mouth rinses, making it convenient for treating different types of mouth sores and irritations. It is important to follow the instructions on the label or consult a doctor for proper usage.

While Orajel can be effective for treating minor mouth problems, it is important to be cautious of potential side effects, especially with the medicated formulations containing benzocaine. The use of benzocaine has been associated with methemoglobinemia, a serious condition affecting oxygen delivery by red blood cells. Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include pale or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness, and rapid heart rate. If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention.

Orajel is available in different forms

Orajel is a topical treatment for the mouth and gums that can be used to relieve pain from minor mouth problems. It is available in both medicated and nonmedicated formulations.

The medicated formulations of Orajel contain benzocaine, which is a local anesthetic that numbs the skin and surfaces inside the mouth. It is intended for use by adults and children over the age of 12. Children aged 2 to 12 years can use it under the guidance of a doctor and with adult supervision. Orajel with benzocaine can be effective in temporarily relieving pain caused by sore throats, canker sores, cold sores, fever blisters, minor irritation, or injury of the mouth and gums.

The nonmedicated formulations of Orajel, such as Orajel Baby, do not contain benzocaine or other ingredients like artificial colors, sweeteners, menthol, parabens, belladonna, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), gluten, dairy, and eugenol (clove oil). These are marketed for use during teething but are not recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) due to safety concerns.

Orajel is available in various forms, including:

• Topical gel
• Topical cream
• Topical swabs
• Topical liquid
• Toothache gel
• Toothache rinse
• Gum liquid
• Gum cream
• Gum gel

Frequently asked questions