Benzyl Benzoate
Benzyl benzoate is an organic compound used as a topical scabicide and pediculicide. It is highly effective against scabies mites and lice, though it can cause significant localized irritation and burning sensations upon application. Due to its potential for skin irritation and toxicity if absorbed systemically, it must be diluted with water when used on infants and young children.
Dosage by Body Weight
For adults, apply the 25% formulation to the entire body from the neck down after bathing and drying the skin. Leave on for 24 hours, then wash off thoroughly. For children, the formulation must be diluted with water to prevent severe skin irritation.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Contraindicated in neonates and young infants due to the risk of systemic absorption, localized irritation, and potential toxicities.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 3 parts water)
- Frequency
- Single application, wash off after 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Must be heavily diluted. Apply thinly to the body, strictly avoiding the face, eyes, and hands to prevent oral ingestion or ocular exposure.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 3 parts water)
- Frequency
- Single application, wash off after 12 to 24 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dilute to 25% of the adult strength to minimize severe burning. Seek medical supervision before applying to children in this weight bracket.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 1 or 2 parts water)
- Frequency
- Single application, wash off after 24 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dilute to 33% to 50% of the adult strength. Prevent the child from scratching or sucking on treated skin areas.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 1 part water)
- Frequency
- Single application, wash off after 24 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dilute to 50% of the adult strength (equal parts formulation and water). Wash hands thoroughly after application if they are not being treated.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Contraindicated in neonates and young infants due to the risk of systemic absorption, localized irritation, and potential toxicities. |
| 5-7 kg | Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 3 parts water) | Single application, wash off after 12 hours | Must be heavily diluted. Apply thinly to the body, strictly avoiding the face, eyes, and hands to prevent oral ingestion or ocular exposure. |
| 8-10 kg | Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 3 parts water) | Single application, wash off after 12 to 24 hours | Dilute to 25% of the adult strength to minimize severe burning. Seek medical supervision before applying to children in this weight bracket. |
| 11-15 kg | Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 1 or 2 parts water) | Single application, wash off after 24 hours | Dilute to 33% to 50% of the adult strength. Prevent the child from scratching or sucking on treated skin areas. |
| 16-20 kg | Diluted emulsion (1 part Benzyl Benzoate to 1 part water) | Single application, wash off after 24 hours | Dilute to 50% of the adult strength (equal parts formulation and water). Wash hands thoroughly after application if they are not being treated. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used for the topical treatment of scabies (infestations of Sarcoptes scabiei) and pediculosis (head and pubic lice infestations). It works by exerting a toxic effect on the nervous system of the parasites, leading to their death.
Generic Name
Benzyl benzoateBranded Drug Names
Benzyl Benzoate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.