← Search & browse all drugs

benzethonium

R02AA09

Forms & Strengths

Lozenges: 1.46 mg to 5 mg
Topical Antiseptic solutions: 0.1% to 0.2%
Ointments/Creams: Varies by formulation

Adult Dosing

Sore throat/pharyngitis (lozenges): Dissolve 1 lozenges slowly in the mouth every 2 to 3 hours as needed
Topical antiseptic: Apply a small amount to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily

Pediatric Dosing

Children < 6 years: Safety and efficacy not established, use not recommended for lozenges
Children >= 6 years: Same as adult dosing for lozenges, use with caution

Indications

Temporary relief of minor sore throat and minor mouth irritation
Topical antiseptic for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns

Mechanism of Action

Quaternary ammonium cationic surfactant that acts as an antimicrobial agent
Disrupts cell membrane permeability and denatures proteins in susceptible bacteria and viruses

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to benzethonium chloride or other quaternary ammonium compounds
Severe sore throat accompanied by high fever, headache, nausea, or vomiting

Adverse Reactions

Local skin irritation, burning, or redness at the application site
Allergic contact dermatitis in hypersensitive individuals
Oral mucosal irritation with lozenge use

Drug Interactions

Anionic surfactants (e.g., soap, sodium lauryl sulfate) may inactivate benzethonium chloride
No major systemic drug interactions identified due to minimal systemic absorption

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use