pramoxine, Itch-X, PramaGel, Anti-Itch, and others

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Medical Author:

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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GENERIC NAME: pramoxine

BRAND NAME: Itch-X, PramaGel, Anti-Itch, and others

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Pramoxine is a topical (used on the skin) anesthetic (numbing agent). Topical anesthetics are chemicals that interfere with the function of the nerves that sense pain. Pramoxine may be used in persons who are allergic to other local anesthetics such as lidocaine, procaine, or benzocaine.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PRESCRIPTION: No

PREPARATIONS: Topical Cream: 1%. Topical Gel: 1%. Topical Lotion: 1%. Topical Spray: 1%

STORAGE: Pramoxine should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 C (59-86 F).

PRESCRIBED FOR: Pramoxine is used for the temporary relief of pain and itching associated with rashes, burns, sunburn, eczema, hives, cold sores, insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. It also may be used to treat feminine itching, and hemorrhoids.

DOSING: Pramoxine is applied to the affected areas 3 to 4 times per day. It is intended only for external use and should not be applied to open cuts or wounds or damaged skin. If the condition does not improve after 7 days of use, a physician should be consulted.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: There are no drug interactions listed for pramoxine.

PREGNANCY: It is unknown whether pramoxine is harmful if used during pregnancy.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is unknown whether pramoxine is secreted into breast milk.

SIDE EFFECTS: In some patients, pramoxine may act as a "sensitizer," and worsen some skin conditions. It may cause burning or stinging.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.