benzyl benzoate

Allergic or irritant dermatitis may occur.

Avoid eye exposure. If eye is exposed, flush immediately with water. Special populations:

Use under direct adult supervision. Keep out of children’s reach. Lotion for the treatment of head lice is not recommended for infants • Neonates: Intravenous administration of benzyl alcohol–containing products has been associated with a neonatal gasping syndrome. Patients Dosage form specific issues:

Large amounts of benzyl alcohol (≥99 mg/kg/day) have been associated with a potentially fatal toxicity (“gasping syndrome”) in neonates; the “gasping syndrome” consists of metabolic acidosis, respiratory distress, gasping respirations, CNS dysfunction (including convulsions, intracranial hemorrhage), hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse (AAP ["Inactive" 1997]; CDC, 1982); some data suggests that benzoate displaces bilirubin from protein binding sites (Ahlfors, 2001); avoid or use dosage forms containing benzyl alcohol with caution in neonates. See manufacturer’s labeling. Other warnings/precautions:

Discontinue use and notify health care provider if condition worsens or does not improve within 7 days, or if swelling, rash, or fever develops. Do not use for >7 days unless instructed by health care professional.