benzocaine

American  

[ben-zoh-keyn] / ˈbɛn zoʊˌkeɪn /

noun

Pharmacology.

1. ethyl aminobenzoate; a white, crystalline powder, C 9 H 11 NO 2 , used as a local anesthetic, usually in ointment form.

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benzocaine British  

/ ˈbɛnzəʊˌkeɪn /

noun

1. a white crystalline ester used as a local anaesthetic; ethyl para -aminobenzoate. Formula: C 9 H 11 NO 2

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Etymology

Origin of benzocaine

First recorded in 1920–25; benzo- + (co)caine

Example Sentences

But there was something in those little brown squares — the supplement first included benzocaine, an oral anesthetic that would presumably numb the taste buds.

From Washington Post • Jan. 25, 2019

The American Academy of Pediatrics also warns against the use of topical teething gels containing lidocaine or benzocaine because they can cause local reactions and rare but serious side effects including seizures and brain injuries.

From Slate • May 4, 2015

In the meantime, some doctors prescribe anesthetic medications like antipyrine combined with benzocaine to help ease the pain, but studies suggest that herbal ear drops may be just as effective, with minimal side effects.

From New York Times • Dec. 30, 2010

After reviewing drug company data, the study group found that benzocaine and PPA apparently were "safe and effective."

From Time Magazine Archive