General Description
Synonyms: Benzoic acid benzyl ester; benzylbenzenecarboxylate; benzylis benzoas; benzyl phenylformate; phenylmethyl benzoate.
Description: Benzyl benzoate is a clear, colorless, oily liquid with a slightly aromatic odor. It produces a sharp, burning sensation on the tongue. At temperatures below 178C it exists as clear, colorless crystals.
Chemical Name: Benzoic acid phenylmethyl ester
Functions
Plasticizer; solubilizing agent; solvent; therapeutic agent.
Uses
Benzyl benzoate is used as a solubilizing agent and nonaqueous solvent in intramuscular injections at concentrations of 0.01–46.0% v/v, and as a solvent and plasticizer for cellulose and nitrocellulose.
It is also used in the preparation of spray-dried powders using nanocapsules.
However, the most widespread pharmaceutical use of benzyl benzoate is as a topical therapeutic agent in the treatment of scabies.
Benzyl benzoate is also used therapeutically as a parasiticide in veterinary medicine.
Other applications of benzyl benzoate include its use as a pediculicide, and as a solvent and fixative for flavors and perfumes in cosmetics and food products.
Incompatibilities
Benzyl benzoate is incompatible with alkalis and oxidizing agents.
Safety
Benzyl benzoate is metabolized by rapid hydrolysis to benzoic acid and benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol is then further metabolized to hippuric acid, which is excreted in the urine. Benzyl benzoate is widely used as a 25% v/v topical application in the treatment of scabies and as an excipient in intramuscular injections and oral products. Adverse reactions to benzyl benzoate include skin irritation and hypersensitivity reactions. Oral ingestion may cause harmful stimulation of the CNS and convulsions. Benzyl benzoate should be avoided by perople with perfume allergy.
Handling Precautions
Benzyl benzoate may be harmful if ingested, and is irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Eye protection, gloves, and a respirator are recommended. It is recommended that benzyl benzoate is handled in a fume cupboard. Benzyl benzoate is flammable.