Home Drug Guide Benzyl Benzoate

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Benzyl Benzoate

Brand Names

Classification

Therapeutic: Antiparasitic, Topical Scabicide and Pediculicide

Pharmacological: Benzyl Benzoate is a topical ester used as an antiparasitic agent.

FDA Approved Indications

  • Treatment of scabies caused by Sarcoptes scabiei.
  • Treatment of pediculosis (lice infestation).

Mechanism of Action

Benzyl benzoate acts as an insecticide and acaricide by disrupting the metabolic processes of mites and lice, leading to paralysis and death of the parasites.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Apply a thin layer to affected area(s) once daily for 2-3 days, as directed. Wash off after the application period.

Pediatric: Similar to adults; infants may require caution and lower doses, consulting specific pediatric guidelines.

Geriatric: Use with caution, as skin may be more sensitive; adjust application based on skin tolerance.

Renal Impairment: Not specifically indicated; topical use minimizes systemic absorption, but caution in extensive application.

Hepatic Impairment: Not applicable, as it is used topically with minimal systemic absorption.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption when used topically.

Distribution: Limited data; primarily remains localized on the skin.

Metabolism: Metabolized locally in the skin.

Excretion: Metabolites excreted in urine after systemic absorption, which is minimal.

Half Life: Not well established; local action and rapid metabolism limit systemic half-life.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to benzyl benzoate or other constituents.
  • Use on broken or irritated skin without medical advice.

Precautions

  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
  • Test for skin sensitivity before first use.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Skin irritation, including redness, redness, rash. (Common)
  • Burning sensation. (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Allergic contact dermatitis. (Rare)
  • Severe skin reactions. (Very rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

N/A

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Assess skin for irritation or hypersensitivity prior to use.

Diagnoses:

  • Impaired skin integrity related to dermatitis or allergic reaction.

Implementation: Apply as directed, avoiding sensitive areas, and monitor skin response.

Evaluation: Check for resolution of infestation and side effects; discontinue if adverse reactions occur.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Apply medication exactly as prescribed.
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
  • Report any signs of severe skin reactions or allergic response.
  • Do not use on broken or irritated skin unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: None noted.

Lab Test Interference: None reported.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: No systemic toxicity usually expected due to minimal absorption; overdose may cause excessive skin irritation.

Treatment: Wash affected area with soap and water, symptomatic treatment for irritation, seek medical attention if adverse reactions occur.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and open flames.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.

🛡️ 5 Critical Medication Safety Tips for Nurses

1

Triple-Check High-Risk Medications

Always have another nurse verify insulin, heparin, warfarin, and chemotherapy drugs. These "high-alert" medications cause the most serious errors. Check concentration, dose calculation, and pump settings twice.

2

Know Look-Alike, Sound-Alike Drugs

Common mix-ups: hydromorphone/morphine, Celebrex/Celexa, Zyprexa/Zyrtec. Always use BOTH generic and brand names, read labels twice, and use barcode scanning when available. One wrong letter can be fatal.

3

Assess Before AND After Giving Meds

Check vitals before cardiac meds, pain levels before analgesics, and blood glucose before insulin. Always reassess within 30 minutes to evaluate effectiveness and watch for adverse reactions.

4

Watch for Drug Interactions

Common dangerous combinations: warfarin + aspirin (bleeding), ACE inhibitors + potassium (hyperkalemia), digoxin + diuretics (toxicity). Always check drug interactions before administering new medications.

5

Educate Your Patients

Teach patients medication names, purposes, major side effects, and what to report. Informed patients catch errors and improve compliance. Always encourage questions - an educated patient is a safer patient.

⚡ Remember: When in doubt, don't give it out! It's always safer to double-check than regret later.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This drug guide is for educational purposes only and is NOT intended for clinical use. Always consult current prescribing information, healthcare providers, and institutional protocols before administering any medication. Do not use this information for patient care decisions.