What is Benzyl Benzoate Used For? Medical Applications
Benzyl benzoate's primary medical use is as a topical parasiticidal agent, meaning it kills parasites that live on the skin. It is an effective and inexpensive treatment for several ectoparasite infestations, though its use varies by region and medical guidelines.
Treating Scabies Infestations
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Benzyl benzoate is a common treatment for this condition, particularly in regions outside of the United States and Canada where it may be more readily available. It is typically formulated as a 10% to 25% topical emulsion or lotion.
When treating scabies, the application process generally involves several key steps:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the skin before applying the medication.
- Apply the medication to the entire skin surface from the neck down, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- Allow the medication to remain on the body for a specified duration, often 24 hours.
- Wash the body thoroughly with soap and warm water afterwards.
- Depending on the severity, a repeat application may be necessary.
Treating Lice Infestations
Head lice are small, parasitic insects that live on the human scalp and feed on blood. Benzyl benzoate is also an effective treatment for lice (pediculosis). The treatment protocol is similar to that for scabies:
- Wash the hair with regular shampoo, rinse, and dry completely.
- Apply the benzyl benzoate lotion or emulsion to thoroughly wet the hair and scalp.
- Leave the medication on for the prescribed time, typically 24 hours.
- Wash the hair thoroughly with warm water and soap or shampoo.
- Use a fine-toothed comb to remove any remaining nits (eggs) or shells.
Mechanism of Action
As a topical acaricide and pediculicide, benzyl benzoate's efficacy stems from its neurotoxic effects on parasites. The precise molecular mechanism is complex, but it is known to interfere with the nervous system of mites and lice. Once absorbed by the parasites, it causes paralysis and leads to their death. This rapid lethal action on the mite, which can occur within minutes in laboratory tests, makes it an effective tool against infestations.
Non-Medical and Veterinary Uses
Beyond its therapeutic applications, benzyl benzoate is a highly versatile compound with numerous uses in other fields.
- Solvent and Plasticizer: Due to its excellent solvent and plasticizing properties, it is used in the manufacturing of plastics and polymers.
- Fragrance Fixative: In the perfume industry, it acts as a fixative to help prolong the duration of a scent.
- Cosmetics: It is used as a solvent and fragrance ingredient in many personal care products, including creams, lotions, and perfumes.
- Insect Repellent: It has been utilized as an active ingredient in repellents for ticks, chiggers, and mosquitoes.
- Veterinary Medicine: It is used topically as an acaricide and scabicide for treating external parasites in dogs and other animals. However, it is considered toxic to cats, and its use is contraindicated in some countries for this species.
Comparison of Benzyl Benzoate vs. Permethrin for Scabies
Recent studies have highlighted potential differences in efficacy between benzyl benzoate and permethrin, a common alternative treatment for scabies.
| Feature | Benzyl Benzoate (e.g., 25% emulsion) | Permethrin (e.g., 5% cream) |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy in Recent Studies | Demonstrated excellent cure rates (e.g., 87%) in clinical trials, suggesting effectiveness despite potential reduced sensitivity to permethrin. | Showed a lack of efficacy in some recent trials, possibly due to increasing mite resistance (e.g., 27% cure rate). |
| Skin Irritation | Associated with a higher incidence of skin irritation, including burning and stinging sensations. | Generally well-tolerated with a low incidence of skin irritation. |
| Cost | Often a very inexpensive option, making it accessible in many regions. | Cost can vary but may be more expensive in some areas compared to benzyl benzoate. |
| Availability | Widely available in many countries outside the US and Canada. | Considered the standard first-line treatment in many countries, including the US. |
Side Effects and Precautions
Like all medications, benzyl benzoate can cause side effects and requires careful use. Common adverse effects include:
- Skin irritation: Redness, itching, burning, and tingling at the application site.
- Allergic reactions: Hives or rashes may occur in some individuals.
- Eye irritation: If the medication gets into the eyes, flush thoroughly with water.
To ensure safe use, consider the following precautions:
- Do not apply to open wounds, cuts, or inflamed skin, as this can increase absorption and the risk of side effects.
- Avoid using on the face, as the skin is more sensitive.
- Not recommended for infants or very young children in high concentrations. Always dilute as instructed by a healthcare provider for pediatric use.
- Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before use.
- Ensure that all household members and close contacts are checked and treated if necessary to prevent re-infestation.
Conclusion
Benzyl benzoate is a well-established and cost-effective topical treatment primarily used to eradicate scabies mites and lice. Its effectiveness as a neurotoxin against these parasites has been proven over decades of clinical use. While recent studies suggest it may offer superior efficacy for scabies compared to permethrin in some cases, its higher potential for skin irritation must be considered. Beyond medicine, its versatility extends to industrial and cosmetic applications. However, it is crucial to follow a healthcare provider's instructions for proper dosage and application to minimize side effects and ensure effective treatment. For more specific medical information on this medication, refer to reliable drug databases like DrugBank.(https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00676)
