Defend

Description

No relevant information is available for SPL code 34089-3.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for oral mucosal use only, as directed by a dentist. It is intended for the temporary relief of pain associated with minor dental procedures.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects reported for this drug.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage involves applying only the amount necessary to the oral mucosa to effectively prevent or relieve pain.

It is important to note that this product is contraindicated for use in children under 2 years of age. Healthcare professionals should ensure that this age restriction is adhered to in order to avoid potential adverse effects.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications associated with the use of this product. It is deemed safe for use in the absence of specific conditions or situations that would warrant avoidance.

Warnings and Precautions

Use of this product may lead to methemoglobinemia, a serious condition characterized by reduced oxygen transport in the blood. This risk exists even in individuals who have previously used the product without issue. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention if they or a child in their care exhibit any of the following symptoms: pale, gray, or blue-colored skin (cyanosis), headache, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, or fatigue or lack of energy.

Patients with a known history of allergies to local anesthetics, including procaine, butacaine, benzocaine, or other "caine" anesthetics, should not use this product due to the risk of severe allergic reactions.

The product should not be used for more than 7 days unless directed by a physician. If symptoms of a sore mouth do not improve within this timeframe, or if irritation, pain, or redness persists or worsens, or if any swelling, rash, or fever develops, patients should be advised to consult their physician promptly. Additionally, this product is contraindicated for teething and should not be administered to children under 2 years of age.

While using this product, it is crucial to avoid contact with the eyes. In the event of accidental contact, the affected area should be flushed with water immediately.

Patients must adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines. In cases where an overdose occurs, such as swallowing more than the recommended amount for pain relief, immediate medical assistance should be sought or the Poison Control Center contacted.

For individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is essential to consult a physician prior to use to ensure safety for both the mother and child.

Side Effects

The use of this product may lead to serious adverse reactions, including methemoglobinemia, a condition that significantly reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Patients should be aware that methemoglobinemia can occur even after prior use of the product. Immediate medical attention is required if symptoms such as pale, gray, or blue-colored skin (cyanosis), headache, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, or fatigue or lack of energy develop.

Patients with a known history of allergies to local anesthetics, including procaine, butacaine, benzocaine, or other "caine" anesthetics, should not use this product. Additionally, it is advised that the product not be used for more than 7 days unless directed by a physician. If symptoms of a sore mouth do not improve within this timeframe, or if irritation, pain, or redness persists or worsens, or if swelling, rash, or fever develops, patients should seek medical advice promptly.

The product is contraindicated for use in teething and in children under 2 years of age. While using this product, patients should avoid contact with the eyes; in the event of contact, the eyes should be flushed with water immediately. It is also crucial not to exceed the recommended dosage. If more than the recommended amount is accidentally ingested, medical assistance or contact with a Poison Control Center should be sought without delay.

For pregnant or breastfeeding patients, consultation with a physician is recommended prior to use.

Drug Interactions

Patients with a history of allergies to local anesthetics, including procaine, butacaine, benzocaine, or other "caine" anesthetics, should not use this product due to the risk of allergic reactions.

The use of this product may lead to methemoglobinemia, a serious condition characterized by reduced oxygen transport in the blood. This adverse effect can occur even in patients who have previously used the product without incident. Prompt treatment is essential if methemoglobinemia is suspected. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of this condition is advised, particularly in patients with risk factors or those receiving higher doses.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Defend (benzocaine). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 2 years of age should not be administered this medication. In the event that a child develops symptoms indicative of methemoglobinemia, such as pale, gray, or blue-colored skin (cyanosis), headache, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, or fatigue, immediate medical attention should be sought, and the use of the medication should be discontinued.

Additionally, this medication should be kept out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a physician prior to use. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully considered in these populations to ensure maternal and fetal safety.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a physician prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data regarding the excretion of this medication in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when recommending this medication to lactating patients.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the available data regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function, as the lack of specific guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring of these patients.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, it is imperative that healthcare professionals adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines to prevent adverse effects. Exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to serious health complications.

Should an individual accidentally ingest more than the prescribed amount intended for pain management, immediate medical assistance is required. It is crucial to contact a Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical help without delay. Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential risks associated with overdosage.

Healthcare providers should remain vigilant and ensure that patients are educated about the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages to avoid the dangers of overdosage.

Nonclinical Toxicology

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are advised to consult a physician prior to using this product due to potential teratogenic effects.

The use of this product may lead to methemoglobinemia, a serious condition characterized by reduced oxygen transport in the blood. This adverse effect can occur even in individuals who have previously used the product without incident, necessitating prompt medical intervention.

No specific information regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology is provided in the insert.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified the potential for methemoglobinemia associated with the use of this product. Methemoglobinemia is a serious condition that can significantly reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and requires prompt treatment. Reports indicate that this condition may occur even in individuals who have previously used the product without incident.

In cases where symptoms develop, it is advised to discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms to be aware of include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin (cyanosis), headache, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness, and fatigue or lack of energy.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse. It is important to emphasize the necessity of proper storage to ensure the safety of young individuals.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a temperature range of 59° to 86°F (15° to 30°C). Care should be taken to protect the product from freezing to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions are crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The route of administration for the product is dental. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a physician prior to use. Additionally, it is important to keep the product out of reach of children to ensure safety. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Defend, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)