benzocaine

chemical compound

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July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Benzocaine is a white crystalline ester with the chemical formula C₉H₁₁NO₂. It is used as a local anesthetic, meaning it causes a temporary loss of sensation in a specific area of the body by blocking nerve conduction. The name "benzocaine" is derived from its chemical structure and the suffix "-caine," which is common for local anesthetics. Benzocaine was first used in 1907.12

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…1900, when the synthetic compound benzocaine was introduced. Benzocaine was the first of many local anesthetics with similar chemical structures and led to the synthesis and introduction of a variety of compounds with more efficacy and less toxicity.
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…1900, when the synthetic compound benzocaine was introduced. Benzocaine was the first of many local anesthetics with similar chemical structures and led to the synthesis and introduction of a variety of compounds with more efficacy and less toxicity.
Read More