Calamine (Calamine/zinc oxide - non Rx)

Description

Indications

Calamine is an effective anti-itch medication that functions by inducing a cooling sensation on the skin as it evaporates. This medication is employed to alleviate discomfort, itching, and pain resulting from minor skin irritations such as poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. It also aids in the drying of oozing and weeping due to skin irritation caused by exposure to these plants.

Calamine in topical form is additionally utilized to treat itching and skin irritation brought about by various minor skin conditions such as chickenpox, insect bites or stings, measles, eczema, and sunburn.

Uses and Dosage

Apply this medication exclusively to the skin. Adhere to all instructions provided on the product package or as directed by your physician.

Before use, ensure to shake the bottle well. Administer the medication onto the skin using a cotton pad, and allow it to dry. Should you have any concerns, seek advice from your physician or pharmacist.

Take precautions to avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, nose, genital or anal areas. In the event of contact, rinse with a substantial amount of water.

Notify your doctor if there is no improvement or if your condition worsens after seven days of use.

Side Effects

A very serious allergic reaction to this medication is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop any symptoms of an allergic reaction:

• rash
• itching
• hives and swelling, particularly on your face, mouth, tongue and throat
• tightness in your chest or throat
• red, swollen skin
• blisters or peeling skin
• severe dizziness
• difficulty swallowing, talking or breathing
• wheezing
• hoarseness
• fever

Caution

Inform your pharmacist or doctor of any existing allergies you may have before using calamine. This product could include inactive ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.

If you are pregnant, inform your doctor before using this medication.

It is unclear whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your physician before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Calamine is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Calamine lotion:
  • topical application

FAQ

Is Calamine toxic?

Calamine lotion is made up of several ingredients to give it a lotion consistency. These ingredients are not toxic, including its active ingredient, zinc oxide.

Can I leave Calamine on overnight?

You can keep calamine lotion on a pimple as long as overnight. But if you have sensitive skin, you may want to keep it on for less time.

Resources

1. https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/poison-control-center/calamine-lotion#:~:text=Calamine%20lotion%20is%20made%20up,an%20upset%20stomach%20if%20eaten
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/calamine-lotion-for-acne#how-to-use
3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23338-calamine-lotion
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14271/calamine-topical/details
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/calamine-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20062463?p=1#:~:text=Calamine%20is%20used%20to%20relieve,Calamine%20is%20available%20without%20prescription
6. https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/calamine-topical
7. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/calamine-topical.html