Zilactin is a brand of over-the-counter topical medication used to treat mouth sores, such as canker sores, cold sores, and fever blisters. The active ingredient in Zilactin is benzocaine, which is a local anesthetic that provides temporary pain relief.
Zilactin was first introduced in the United States in the late 1980s. It was developed by a pharmaceutical company called Zila, Inc., which was later acquired by Tolmar Pharmaceuticals.
The active ingredient in Zilactin, benzocaine, has been used for many years as a local anesthetic in various medical and dental procedures. Benzocaine works by blocking nerve signals in the affected area, which can provide temporary pain relief.
Zilactin was specifically developed to treat mouth sores, such as canker sores, cold sores, and fever blisters. These types of sores can be very painful and can take several days or even weeks to heal. Zilactin’s unique formulation provides a protective barrier over the sore, which can help it heal faster and reduce pain.
Over the years, Zilactin has become a popular over-the-counter treatment for mouth sores, and it is now available in many countries around the world. While there are now many other topical medications available for treating mouth sores, Zilactin remains a popular choice for many people due to its effectiveness and ease of use.
Why Was Zilactin Discontinued?
Zilactin has not been discontinued. It is still available for purchase in the United States and other countries as an over-the-counter medication for treating mouth sores.
However, it is possible that there have been temporary shortages or supply chain issues that may have made it difficult to find Zilactin in some areas. Additionally, some individual stores or pharmacies may choose not to carry certain products for a variety of reasons, so it is always a good idea to check with multiple retailers if you are having trouble finding a particular medication.
If you have any concerns about the availability of Zilactin or its effectiveness for treating your mouth sores, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs and may be able to recommend alternative medications or therapies if necessary.
What are the warnings for Zilactin?
Zilactin is generally considered safe to use for most people, but there are some warnings and precautions that should be kept in mind. Here are some important warnings for Zilactin:
1. Allergy warning: Do not use Zilactin if you are allergic to benzocaine or any other ingredient in the medication.
2. Do not swallow: Zilactin is designed to be used topically on the mouth sores and should not be swallowed. Swallowing benzocaine can lead to serious side effects, such as breathing difficulties and an irregular heartbeat.
3. Avoid large or prolonged use: Zilactin should only be used on small, localized areas of the mouth for a short period of time. Using it on large areas of the mouth or for prolonged periods of time can lead to numbness, irritation, or other side effects.
4. Consult a healthcare provider: If you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before using Zilactin. This is especially important for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as benzocaine can potentially be harmful to the fetus or infant.
5. Keep out of reach of children: Zilactin should be kept out of reach of children, as benzocaine can be toxic if ingested.
6. Side effects: Some possible side effects of Zilactin include temporary numbness or tingling, redness, itching, or irritation of the skin. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or if your symptoms do not improve after using Zilactin, seek medical attention.
It is important to read the instructions on the package carefully before using Zilactin and to follow them closely. If you have any questions or concerns about using Zilactin, talk to a healthcare provider.
Why is Zilactin not sold in stores?
Zilactin is still sold in stores as an over-the-counter medication for treating mouth sores. It may not be available at every store or pharmacy, but it is generally available for purchase at many retailers, including drugstores, supermarkets, and online stores.
If you are having trouble finding Zilactin at a particular store or pharmacy, it is possible that they may be temporarily out of stock or may have chosen not to carry the product for a variety of reasons. In some cases, the availability of certain medications may also vary depending on the region or country.
If you are having trouble finding Zilactin in stores, you may want to check with multiple retailers or try purchasing it online from a reputable seller. It is important to make sure that you are purchasing the product from a reliable source and that it has not expired or been tampered with in any way. If you have any concerns or questions about purchasing or using Zilactin, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider.
What are the side effects of Zilactin cold sore gel?
While Zilactin is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. Here are some of the common side effects of Zilactin:
1. Temporary numbness or tingling: Benzocaine can cause a temporary numbness or tingling sensation in the area where it is applied.
2. Skin irritation: Some people may experience redness, itching, or other types of skin irritation when using Zilactin.
3. Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may experience an allergic reaction to benzocaine, which can cause symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
4. Methemoglobinemia: This is a rare but potentially serious side effect of benzocaine that can occur when it is absorbed into the bloodstream. It can cause a bluish tint to the skin, shortness of breath, and an irregular heartbeat.
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or if your symptoms do not improve after using Zilactin, seek medical attention. It is also important to follow the instructions on the package carefully and to talk to a healthcare provider before using Zilactin if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications.
Can Zilactin be used inside the mouth?
Yes, Zilactin is designed to be used inside the mouth to treat mouth sores, such as canker sores and cold sores. The gel is applied topically to the affected area using the provided applicator or a clean fingertip, and it should be left in place for several hours before being rinsed away.
It is important to follow the instructions on the package carefully when using Zilactin and to avoid swallowing the gel, as this can lead to serious side effects. Zilactin should also only be used on small, localized areas of the mouth for a short period of time, as using it on large areas or for prolonged periods of time can lead to numbness, irritation, or other side effects.
If you have any questions or concerns about using Zilactin inside your mouth, or if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications, it is always a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider before using the medication.
