GENERIC NAME: ZINC OXIDE - TOPICAL (zink OX-ide)
BRAND NAME(S): Desitin
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat or prevent minor skin irritations (e.g., burns, cuts, poison ivy, diaper rash).
HOW TO USE: Apply a generous amount of medication to the affected area of skin as often as needed, or as directed by your doctor. For external use only. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes. If redness, irritation or itching continue, or your condition worsens or does not improve, notify your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated when used as directed. There are no reports of any side effects due to the use of this medication. However, if you experience any unusual effects while using this medication, notify your doctor.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other skin infections/problems, allergies (especially drug allergies). Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: other skin products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C).
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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.
- Poison Ivy - Read about poison ivy, oak and sumac (plants that cause an itchy skin rash and blisters) contact dermatitis symptoms, treatment, prevention and facts (it isn't contagious).
- Anal Itching - Learn about the causes of anal itching like pinworms, diarrhea, psoriasis, anal fissure, hemorrhoids, skin tags, yeast infection, diabetes, and HIV.
- Burns (First Aid) - Burns are categorized by severity as first, second, or third degree. First degree burns are similar to a painful sunburn. The damage is more severe with second degree burns, leading to blistering and more intense pain. The skin turns white and loses sensation with third degree burns. Burn treatment depends upon the location, total burn area, and intensity of the burn.
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