What is topical calamine lotion, and what is it used for?
Calamine is a mixture of zinc oxide and other components. Calamine and zinc oxide are topical anti-itch lotions. Although the exact mechanism of how calamine and zinc oxide work is not known, they have skin protecting and astringent properties that relieve itching. They also seem to slow down bacterial growth, preventing infections from worsening.
- Calamine topical lotion is the brand name for calamine topical lotion.
- Calamine topical lotion is available in generic form.
- Calamine topical lotion is available over the counter (OTC)
What is the dosage for topical calamine lotion?
The recommended dose for calamine and zinc oxide is:
- Apply to affected areas every 6 to 8 hours as needed.
Which drugs interact with topical calamine lotion?
No drug interactions have been established with calamine and zinc oxide lotion.
SLIDESHOW
Rosacea, Acne, Shingles, Covid-19 Rashes: Common Adult Skin Diseases See SlideshowPregnancy and breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies done on calamine and zinc oxide to determine safe and effective use in pregnant women.
It is not known whether calamine and zinc oxide enters breast milk.
What else should you know about topical calamine lotion?
What preparations of topical calamine lotion are available?
- Calamine and zinc oxide lotion is available in topical, liquid form.
- Calamine and zinc oxide is pink-colored suspension, supplied in 4 fluid ounces (118 ml) plastic bottles.
How should I keep topical calamine lotion stored?
Store calamine and zinc oxide lotion between temperatures 15 C and 30 C (59 F and 86 F).
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Summary
Calamine and zinc oxide (Calamine Lotion) is a mixture of components used to relieve the itching and pain from poison oak, poison ivy, poison sumac, sunburns, and insect and bug bites. Review side effects, drug interactions, dosage, and storage prior to using this medication.
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Flea Bites
Flea bites are caused by the parasitic insect, the flea. The most common species of flea in the US is the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis. Signs and symptoms of flea bites in humans include itching, hives, a rash with bumps, red spots with a 'halo', and swelling around the bite. Treatment for flea bites includes over-the-counter medicine and natural and home remedies to relieve and soothe itching and inflammation. The redness of a flea bite can last from a few hours to several days.
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Itching (Pruritus)
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Pityriasis rosea is a rash that begins with a large inflamed patch with well-defined scaly borders on the back, chest, or neck. In 1-2 weeks, the person will develop many smaller patches on his or her trunk, arms, and legs. Symptoms include mild itching and possible sore throat, fatigue, nausea, aching, and decreased appetite. Pityriasis rosea typically resolves on its own and symptoms and signs may be treated with topical steroid creams and oral antihistamines.
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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.