Benzyl Benzoate 25%

Benzyl Benzoate 25% is an acaricide used in the treatment of scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei) and pediculosis (lice). At 10-20% concentration, it is toxic to scabies mites and lice. In vitro, the scabies mite is killed in 5 minutes in benzyl benzoate. Its mechanism of action is unclear, but in view of its effects on vertebrates, it is thought that it may act on the nervous system of the parasite.

For scabies treatment, it is applied to the whole body (except head and face) after bathing. One application is usually sufficient, but a second application within 5 days reduces the chance of failure. For pediculosis, it is applied to the affected area and washed off 24 hours later with soap and water. For children, it should be diluted with water.

• Scabies
• Pediculosis pubis and capitis

Benzyl Benzoate is an acaricide used in the treatment of scabies. At concentrations of 10-20% v/v, it is toxic to Sarcoptes scabiei and pediculosis. In vitro, the scabies mite is killed in 5 minutes in benzyl benzoate. Its mechanism of action is unclear, but in view of its effects on vertebrates, it is thought that it may act on the nervous system of the parasite.

Benzyl Benzoate acts on the nervous system of the parasite to kill scabies mites and lice. It can destroy mites within 5 minutes.

Adults:

• Scabies: Apply 25% emulsion over the whole body (except head and face) after bathing. Apply 3 times at 12-hourly intervals. Wash off 12 hours after the last application and change to clean clothes. Alternatively, apply a second time within 5 days of the first application.
• Pediculosis: Apply to the affected area and wash off 24 hours later with soap and water. In severe cases, repeat 2-3 times.

Children:

• Dilute with an equal quantity of water for older children
• Dilute with three parts of water for babies

For external use only. Apply evenly over the whole body (except head and face) after bathing and drying the skin. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after application.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

• Irritant to eyes and mucous membranes
• Skin irritation
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Systemic symptoms following excessive topical use
• Allergic dermatitis
• Drying effects in the elderly

• Avoid contact with eyes (if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water)
• Do not use on broken or irritated skin
• Do not use on the face (irritant effect)
• Elderly patients may experience drying effects
• If severe skin reaction occurs, wash off with soap and warm water
• Caution during pregnancy and lactation

• Broken or irritated skin
• Neonates
• Pregnancy (unless considered essential)
• Application on the face (irritant effect)

No hazardous interactions have been reported.

No food-related restrictions (topical application).

[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] There is inadequate evidence of safety in human pregnancy, but it has been widely used without apparent ill consequence. Should not be used during pregnancy unless considered essential.

[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Breastfeeding should be suspended during treatment with benzyl benzoate. Feeding may be restarted after the emulsion has been washed off the body.

Dilute with equal quantity of water for older children. Dilute with three parts of water for babies. Do not use in neonates.

Elderly patients may experience drying effects, so caution is advised.

Systemic absorption with topical application is minimal, so no dosage adjustment is needed for renal or hepatic impairment.

Excessive topical use may cause systemic symptoms. Consult a doctor if symptoms occur.

Store below 25°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Benzyl Benzoate (C₁₄H₁₂O₂)