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Benzyl alcohol topical
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Benzyl alcohol topical

Generic name: benzyl alcohol topical [ BEN-zil-AL-ka-hol-TOP-i-kal ]
Brand names: Ulesfia, zilactin, zilactin-L
Dosage forms: mucous membrane gel (10%); topical lotion (5%)
Drug class:Topical anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 17, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is benzyl alcohol topical?

The Ulesfia brand of benzyl alcohol topical is used to treat head lice in people between 6 months of age and 60 years old.

The Zilactin brand of benzyl alcohol topical is used to treat sores in or around the mouth, including cold sores, canker sores, or irritated gums. Zilactin is for use in adults and chlidren at least 2 years old.

Benzyl alcohol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • any skin conditions; or

  • any other medical conditions.

Benzyl alcohol topical contains an ingredient that can cause serious side effects or death in very young or premature babies.

  • Do not use Ulesfia on an infant younger than 6 months old, and tell your healthcare provider if your baby was born prematurely.

  • Do not use Zilactin on a child younger than 2 years old.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

You should not breastfeed while using Ulesfia.

How should I use benzyl alcohol topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not allow a young child to use benzyl alcohol topical without help from an adult.

Do not take Ulesfia by mouth. It is for use only on the hair and scalp. You may apply Zilactin to sores inside the mouth, but do not swallow the gel.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Wash your hands with soap and water after applying this medicine.

Do not wet your hair or scalp before applying Ulesfia. Apply enough lotion to completely soak your scalp and hair and massage in thoroughly.

Leave the lotion on for 10 minutes, keeping your eyes closed and covered with a towel during this time. Then rinse out thoroughly with water. Use a fine-tooth nit comb to remove lice eggs from the hair, rinsing the comb often during use. Place removed n...