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Crotamiton


  • Crotamiton is used to relieve itching and skin irritation, and for the relief of itching caused by scabies.
  • Crotamiton is suitable for adults, the elderly and children over three years old.
  • Avoid contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. If any of this preparation gets into your eyes, nose or mouth rinse thoroughly with warm water.

About crotamiton

Type of medicineAntipruritic
Used forRelief of itching and skin irritation, and for the relief of itching caused by scabies
Also calledEurax®
Available asCream and lotion

Crotamiton relieves itching and skin irritation by producing what is called counter-irritation. As crotamiton evaporates from the skin, it produces a cooling effect. This cooling effect helps to divert your body's attention away from the itching.

Before using crotamiton

Before using crotamiton make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant or trying for a baby.
  • If you have dermatitis which is weeping or infected.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use crotamiton

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Crotamiton is for external use only.
  • Apply the lotion or cream to the affected area and rub in as directed.
  • To relieve itching, crotamiton is usually applied two or three times a day to the affected area.
  • Crotamiton can be applied to control the itching caused by scabies, after treatment with a suitable preparation to kill the scabies mite.
  • If you are using crotamiton lotion, always shake the bottle well before use.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Crotamiton is suitable for adults, the elderly and children over three years old.
  • Do not apply crotamiton to broken or inflamed skin.
  • Avoid contact with your eyes, nose and mouth. If any of this preparation gets into your eyes, nose or mouth rinse thoroughly with warm water.
  • The following can make your itching worse: extremes of temperature, wearing rough or irritating clothing, such as wool.

Can crotamiton cause problems?

  • Crotamiton is unlikely to cause side effects unless you are allergic to one of the ingredients.
  • If your skin condition gets worse after using crotamiton, or if you develop a rash, stop using the preparation and speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store crotamiton

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

Important information about all medicines


  • Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2011DocID: 3673DocRef: dils3472Last Reviewed: 19 Oct 2011Version: 22
For the planned review period see the Data Creation and Quality Control Process.
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