What Happens If You Swallow Orajel?  (Scary Things U Should Know)

When you are suffering from intense pain due to toothache or ulcers of the oral cavity, the best available medicine is Orajel. It will be a blessing if you are away from a doctor or any hospital. Topical anesthesia numbs the painful area by blocking nerve impulses. This will relieve the pain and at least for 30 minutes you can relax and find a dentist to cure your problem.

Sometimes people do not read its instructions and swallow it, and think: Oh! What to do?

This question may arise in their minds.

What happens if you swallow Orajel?   Swallowing a small amount is not a problem. The ingredient in oral gel contains Benzocaine to numb, an antiseptic, or ointment to cover the sore area of the mouth. However, sometimes allergies and side effects lead to serious health issues like methemoglobinemia, heart arrest, and respiratory failure.

Don’t panic, it is quite beneficial if you read and follow all the instructions given on the label.

Let’s see how this medicine works and what are the side effects of misuse. 

What Happens If  You Swallow Orajel

The generic name of Orajel is Benzocaine Topical. It is a local anesthetic drug and produces a senseless feeling. It reduces pain in minor skin irritation. Generally, it is used only on surfaces, or in case of sore throat or gum pain apply a small amount at the innerside of the mouth.

If you swallow the applied ointment:

It produces no side effects in a small amount because the oral gel is quite safe to digest. But remember, it should not be used for infants because this medication is for patients above 2 years.

Instruction on the label should be read and then used correctly. Sometimes improper use will hurt the patient.

What Happens When You  Swallow Orajel Mouthwash

Mouthwash and mouth rinse is meant for spitting out not swallowing. Even if on the label it claims to have natural ingredients some of its chemicals are dangerous for the stomach.

A very small portion may cause no negative effects but its large quantity or frequent use produces dizziness, drowsiness, or headache. 

What Can Happen If You Swallow Orajel

Orajel is a simple over-the-counter drug. It is simply used for oral ulcers, clinker, and irritated throat. This local anesthetic starts to numb the lining of the mouth and throat 15 to 30 seconds after application. Its effect remains for 30 minutes.

Some people are allergic to this drug. When unknowingly they take it they have serious reactions. The symptoms of allergy can be seen as:

• Hives
• Difficulty in breathing
• Difficulty in eating or drinking
• Swelling of face, tongue, lips, and throat

Is It Ok To  Swallow Orajel

Yes, it is ok if you accidentally swallow it. But if you get these ulcers frequently, the best thing is you should examine these ulcers with a dentist. Perhaps he better guides you about the cause and cure of ulcers. 

If you use an oral spray like Chloraseptic spray or use oral lozenge, you may swallow it but very slowly.

Is It Bad To Swallow Orajel

Gel, ointment, or liquid applied to your gum or sore throat are not allowed to eat. Though ingesting its small amount is ok, if you are taking its tube and eating it like gum it will lose momentary feeling in the tongue and throat.

So it is bad to have Orajel directly into your mouth.

What Happens If You Swallow Orajel in Large Amount

When a considerable amount is engulfed accidentally or intentionally, a large portion of it enters the main bloodstream. This high concentration of Benzocaine directly affects your vital organs like the heart and brain.

Symptoms can range from mild drowsiness, confusion, seizure, to coma, and cardiac arrest.

Overdose leads to uneven heartbeat, convulsion, slow breathing, and even respiratory failure.

At this critical time, you should call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.

What Are the Side Effects Of Benzocaine Topical(Orajel)

Before the first time using this medicine you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is safe to use for you if you have:

• A personal history of Methemeglobinemia or any genetic enzymatic deficiency disorder;

• Heart disease;

• Asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or other respiratory disorder;

• If you Smoke;

Side effects

Signs and symptoms may occur within a few seconds to up to 2 hours after ingesting Orajel.