Crotamiton
About
Crotamiton belongs to a class of medicines called scabicides and antipruritics used to treat scabies and itchy skin. Scabies is a skin infection caused by mites. It is contagious and spread from one person to another with physical contact. Patients with scabies experience rashes and persistent itching in the infected area, which worsens at night.
Crotamiton contains Crotamiton, which works by killing the mites which cause scabies. Irritation from the mites leads to severe itching and small bumps/blister filled with fluid/pus. It also helps relieve itching related to scabies and other skin conditions. Crotamiton evaporates from the skin and produces a cooling effect. This cooling effect helps to divert the body's attention away from the itching.
Crotamiton is available in the topical (for skin) forms of cream and lotion. Your doctor will advise the appropriate dose that suits your infection. Crotamiton has common side effects like skin irritation, redness and a burning sensation at the application site. These side effects usually do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if you face any other symptoms or the side effects persist longer, please consult your doctor.
Do not take Crotamiton if you are allergic to any of its components. Do not use Crotamiton on sensitive areas like nostrils, ears, lips or genitals if the doctor did not advise you. You should not use Crotamiton on broken skin, open wounds or cuts. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult the doctor before starting Crotamiton. Children below 12 years should use Crotamiton only when prescribed by a doctor. Inform your doctor if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medications, herbal or dietary supplements.
Uses of Crotamiton
Medicinal Benefits
Crotamiton belongs to a class of medicines called scabicides, and antipruritics used to treat scabies and reduce itching associated with certain skin conditions. Crotamiton contains Crotamiton, which works by killing the mites which cause scabies. Irritation from the mites leads to severe itching and small bumps/blister filled with fluid/pus. It also helps relieve itching related to scabies and other skin conditions. Crotamiton produces a cooling effect by evaporating from the skin. This cooling effect helps to divert your body's attention away from the itching. Due to this cooling effect, it is also effective for the relief of sunburn.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Crotamiton
- Skin irritation
- Skin redness
- Burning or tingling sensation at the site of application
- Trouble breathing
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
If you are allergic to Crotamiton or any other medicines, please inform your doctor. Please inform your doctor if you have other skin diseases or chronic illnesses. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding before using Crotamiton. Crotamiton should be used in children only if prescribed. Take the dose as prescribed by the doctor. Do not apply Crotamiton on raw, oozing or swollen skin. Inform your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and other dietary supplements or any other herbal products you are taking. If you notice any persistent skin irritation or worsening of the skin disease, stop using Crotamiton and inform your doctor immediately. Avoid contact with topical Crotamiton with the nose, mouth or eyes as it may irritate. If Crotamiton comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly.
Drug Interactions
Drug-drug interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-food interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-disease interactions: Patients with ragweed (pollen) allergy should use Crotamiton with caution.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionIt is unclear whether alcohol can be taken while using the Crotamiton. Please consult a doctor if you have any concerns.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are pregnant, consult your doctor before using Crotamiton. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionThere are limited studies on how Crotamiton affects breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Crotamiton. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks. However, it is advised not to use Crotamiton on breasts while breastffeding.
Driving
safe if prescribedCrotamiton has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or use machines.
Liver
safe if prescribedCrotamiton is generally safe to use in patients with liver problems. However, if you have liver disease, consult your doctor before using Crotamiton.
Kidney
safe if prescribedCrotamiton is safe to use in patients with kidney problems. However, if you have kidney disease, consult your doctor before using Crotamiton.
Children
cautionChildren below 12 years can use Crotamiton only when prescribed by a doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
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Limit dairy intake such as milk, curd and cheese as they may trigger skin irritation.
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Avoid alcohol as it may increase inflammation and worsen the condition.
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Avoid sharing personal belongings such as combs, towels, scarves and razors.
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Wash the bedding and clothes with soap and hot water after every use.
Special Advise
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Avoid scratching the skin as it may worsen the infection.
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Avoid direct skin-to-skin contact. Seek medical help if your sexual partner also develops scabies.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Scabies: It is caused by the mite, Sarcoptes scabies. The mites attach themselves to the skin and cause skin rashes, intense itching and burning sensation. It usually affects the knees, elbows, breasts, thighs, pubic area and webbing between the fingers.
Pruritis: Pruritis or itchy skin is an uncomfortable, irritating sensation that makes you want to scratch. It is often caused by dry skin. It's common in older adults, as skin tends to become drier.
FAQs
Crotamiton contains Crotamiton belongs to two classes of medicines called antipruritics and scabicides. It works by killing the mites which cause scabies.
Crotamiton is for topical (for skin) use only. If the medicine gets into your eyes, nose, mouth or vagina, rinse with cold water. Do not apply Crotamiton on open wounds, lesions and blisters.
Do not stop taking Crotamiton on your own even if the symptoms are relieved until your full prescribed course is finished.
The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the infection. It is recommended to consult a doctor to know the exact dose and duration of the treatment.
You can wear light clothes after applying medicine to the affected area. Wash the clothes with hot water after every use.
