The History of Benzocaine

Benzocaine is a form of local anesthetic that has been used as a topical pain reliever since the end of the 19th century. Although initially created as a stand-alone anesthetic, benzocaine is now the active ingredient in a number of over-the-counter analgesic ointments used particularly in oral-pain relief, such as Orajel.

Dr. Eduard Ritsert

• Born in Darmstadt, Germany, in 1859, Dr. Eduard Ritsert trained as a pharmacist before embarking on a series of journeys. During those journeys he studied with various pharmacists and doctors, increasing his knowledge of pharmaceutical techniques. Dr. Ritsert looked for solutions to a number of problems by conducting his own experiments in the laboratory and patenting numerous products. His problem-solving eventually led him to the discovery of benzocaine.

Discovery

• In 1884 Dr. Ritsert began searching for an easy-to-produce substitute for the commonly used anesthetic drug cocaine. In 1890 he realized the possibilities presented by p-amino benzoic acid ethyl ester as the nontoxic local anesthetic benzocaine.

A Family Affair

• By 1903 Dr. Ritsert had created his own self-titled company based in Frankfurt, Germany, to produce benzocaine as an anesthetic. Since the formation of Dr. Ritsert Pharma, the Ritsert family has remained in control of the company. In 1928 Dr. Ritsert's son Hans joined the company. He has been followed by generations of the Ritsert family through to the current managing director, Dr. Stefan Ritsert.

How It Works

• Benzocaine works by creating a chemical barrier that halts the build-up of sodium, which accumulates as the nerve endings are stimulated by pain. When sodium builds up, electrical signals also build in the nerve endings. These are eventually transmitted to the brain, which interprets the signals as pain.

Side Effects

• Although benzocaine is readily available, it can cause side effects. In the majority of people these side effects are minor irritants such as increased sweating, drowsiness, headaches and itching. More serious side effects include seizures and an extreme reaction caused by the structure of benzocaine called methemoglobinemia. A blood disorder, methemoglobinemia affects hemoglobin in the blood; when methemoglobinemia levels in the blood are too high, the body often finds it difficult to carry oxygen to the tissues of the body.

Benzocaine Condoms

• A relatively recent use for benzocaine is in condoms to delay premature ejaculation. Manufactured by companies such as Durex and Trojan, benzocaine condoms contain a small amount of benzocaine, which acts as a sensation decreaser. Once applied, the benzocaine condom reduces sensation within two minutes and allows sexual intercourse to last longer.