Benzocaine vs. Lidocaine for Premature Ejaculation

May 14, 2024

4 mins

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual dysfunction affecting a significant number of men worldwide. While there are various treatment options available, topical anesthetics like benzocaine and lidocaine have gained popularity due to their effectiveness in delaying ejaculation. 

Both local anesthetics work by desensitizing the penis, thereby prolonging the time to ejaculation. However, there are differences between the two that may influence which one is more suitable for individual patients.

What is Premature Ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation is a common sexual problem characterized by the inability to delay ejaculation during sexual intercourse. It is estimated to affect between 20% and 30% of men at some point in their lives. 

While the exact cause of premature ejaculation is not fully understood, psychological factors such as anxiety, stress, and depression, as well as biological factors such as genetics and hormonal imbalances, are believed to play a role.

What is Benzocaine and How Does it Work?

Benzocaine is a local anesthetic commonly used to relieve pain and itching. It’s typically prescribed to treat minor skin irritations, sore throat, sunburn, teething pain, vaginal or rectal irritation, ingrown toenails, and hemorrhoids. 

In recent years, benzocaine has also been used off-label to treat premature ejaculation.

Benzocaine works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals in the penis, which reduces its sensitivity and helps delay ejaculation. It’s available in the form of creams, sprays, and gels that are applied topically to the penis before sexual activity.

What is Lidocaine and How Does it Work?

Like benzocaine, lidocaine is a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in the penis, thereby reducing its sensitivity and delaying ejaculation.

Lidocaine is commonly used to numb the skin or mucous membranes before medical procedures – such as inserting a catheter or stitching a wound – as well as to relieve pain caused by conditions such as sunburn, insect bites, and minor cuts and scrapes.

Lidocaine is available in the form of creams, sprays, and gels that are applied topically to the penis before sexual activity.

The Difference Between Benzocaine vs. Lidocaine

While benzocaine and lidocaine are both effective in treating premature ejaculation, there are some differences between the two that may influence which one may be more suitable for you.

Potency

One of the main differences between benzocaine and lidocaine is their potency. Benzocaine is less potent than lidocaine, but both have been found to be effective in treating premature ejaculation.

Onset of action

Another difference between benzocaine and lidocaine is their onset of action. Benzocaine typically takes longer to take effect compared to lidocaine. 

While lidocaine usually starts working within five to 10 minutes of application, benzocaine may take up to 15-20 minutes to start working.

Duration of action

The duration of action is also different between benzocaine and lidocaine. Lidocaine typically lasts longer than benzocaine, with effects lasting for up to one to two hours after application. Benzocaine, on the other hand, may only last for 30-60 minutes.

Side effects

Both benzocaine and lidocaine can cause side effects such as numbness, tingling, burning, itching, and irritation at the application site. Since benzocaine is less potent than lidocaine, its side effects can also be more mild.

However, these side effects are usually mild and temporary. In some cases, benzocaine and lidocaine may also cause allergic reactions such as rash, hives, or difficulty breathing.

Cost

The cost of benzocaine and lidocaine can also vary depending on the brand, formulation, and quantity purchased. In general, benzocaine tends to be less expensive than lidocaine.

Which One is Right for You?

The choice between benzocaine and lidocaine will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a less potent option with fewer side effects, benzocaine may be a better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more potent option with a longer duration of action, lidocaine may be more suitable.

It’s also important to keep in mind that benzocaine and lidocaine are not suitable for everyone. You should not use these medications if you are allergic to them or if you have certain medical conditions such as liver disease or heart disease. 

You should also talk to your doctor before using benzocaine or lidocaine if you are taking any other medications or if you have any concerns about their safety or effectiveness.

How Rex MD Can Help

If you are experiencing premature ejaculation and exploring potential treatments, Rex MD may be able to help.

Rex MD offers an effective treatment for premature ejaculation called sertraline which can help enhance your sexual performance by delaying ejaculation and improving control during sexual activity.

Get started today!