Calamine

About calamine

Calamine can be used to treat pruritis (itching of the skin). Itching can be caused by a number of conditions including eczema, psoriasis, nettle rash, jaundice or scabies.

Calamine relieves itching by producing what is called a counter-irritation. As calamine evaporates from the skin, it produces a cooling effect. 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.

Before using calamine

Before using calamine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use calamine

• Before beginning treatment, read the instructions on the container.
• If you are using calamine lotion, shake the bottle well before use as the lotion will separate on standing.
• Dab the lotion or cream on to the affected area with cotton wool and reapply as required.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Calamine is suitable for use by adults, the elderly and children.
• Avoid contact with the eyes. If any of this preparation gets into the eyes rinse it out with warm water.
• Oil-based calamine lotion contains both peanut oil and lanolin (wool fat). If you are allergic to either of these ingredients you should use either the water-based calamine lotion or the cream instead. Ask your pharmacist to advise you.
• Try to avoid the following as they can make your itching worse: extremes of temperature, wearing rough or irritating clothing (such as wool), and drinking alcohol.
• Try to avoid getting this preparation onto clothing as it may stain.

Can calamine cause problems?

Calamine is unlikely to cause side effects unless you are allergic to one of the ingredients.

If your skin condition gets worse after using calamine, or if you develop a rash, stop using the preparation and speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store calamine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines