Methemoglobinemia associated with dermal application of benzocaine cream in a cat.
Benzocaine, an ester-type local anesthetic, was believed responsible for apparent methemoglobinemia in a cat. The cat was admitted with acute respiratory distress, vomiting, and collapse, which began 15 to 20 minutes after topical application of the drug. Treatment consisted of supportive therapy and intravenous administration of methylene blue. The respiratory rate improved within 5 to 10 minutes of methylene blue administration and continued over a period of 2 hours. Benzocaine-induced methemoglobinemia has been reported in man, dogs, and cats. This report supports the findings of others regarding the potential toxicity of topical ester-type local anesthetics.
Wilkie
D A
DA
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
Kirby
R
R
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000818:Animals; D001566:Benzocaine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy; D002415:Cats; D005260:Female; D008708:Methemoglobinemia / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D008751:Methylene Blue / Q000627:therapeutic use
D008751:Methylene Blue; D001566:Benzocaine