How does Zinc Oxide Cream work? What will it do for me?

Zinc oxide is a topical skin product that is used as a protective coating for mild skin irritations and abrasions. It can promote the healing of chapped skin and diaper rash. Zinc oxide works as a mild astringent and has some antiseptic properties. Zinc oxide is commonly used to prevent or to treat diaper rash by forming a protective barrier between the skin and the diaper. Moderate concentrations (e.g., 15%) are usually used for prevention and maintenance of diaper rash. Higher concentrations (up to 40%) may have absorptive properties and are usually used for treatment of diaper rash. Your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or pharmacist or are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use Zinc Oxide Cream?

This medication is normally applied to the affected areas several times daily on an as needed basis. Be sure to wash the affected area with soap and water and dry thoroughly before applying zinc oxide. To treat diaper rash, zinc oxide is normally applied at every diaper change until the redness disappears. To prevent diaper rash from occurring, zinc oxide is normally applied daily. For best results, be sure to change your baby's diaper frequently and keep the area clean and dry. It is important that this medication be used or given exactly as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Zinc Oxide Cream come in?

Zinc oxide comes as cream or ointment in various strengths. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Who should NOT take Zinc Oxide Cream?

Zinc oxide should not be used by anyone who is allergic to zinc oxide or to any of the ingredients of the medication.

Zinc oxide topical (for the skin) is used to treat diaper rash, minor burns, severely chapped skin, or other minor skin irritations.

Zinc oxide rectal suppositories are used to treat itching, burning, irritation, and other rectal discomfort caused by hemorrhoids or painful bowel movements.

Zinc oxide topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

This medication is used to treat and prevent diaper rash and other minor skin irritations (e.g., burns, cuts, scrapes). It works by forming a barrier on the skin to protect it from irritants/moisture.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if this unlikely side effect occurs: skin irritation.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects.

Trade Name(s): India- Anthical, Happynap, Rashfree, Spectraban, Rashtin, Spectraban 19. International- ARC, Balmex, Boudreaux Butt Paste, Caldesene, Calmol-4 Suppository, Critic Aid, Delazinc, Dermagran BC, Desitin, Desitin Maximum Strength Original, Desitin Rapid Relief Creamy, Diaper Rash Ointment, Diaper Relief, Dr. Smith's Diaper, Flanders Buttocks Ointment, Geri-Protect, Medi-Paste, PeriGuard, Pinxav, Rash Relief, RVPaque, Seniortopix Healix, Soothe & Cool Skin Paste, Sportz Block Dark, Sportz Block Light, Sportz Block Medium, Triple Paste, Tronolane Suppositories, Unna-Flex Elastic Unna Boot 3 inch, Unna-Flex Elastic Unna Boot 4 inch, Znlin, Unna-Flex(obsolete), PNS Unna Boot, Lassars Zinc, Nupercainal Suppository, Desitin Creamy Diaper Rash Ointment, Vaginex Powder, Yeast-X Powder, Mexsana, Calmoseptine Ointment (obsolete), Zincofax, Desitin Creamy, Secura Antifungal Extra Thick(obsolete), Johnsons Diaper Rash, Penaten Soothing, Aveeno Diaper Rash, Soothe & Cool Skin Paste. Why it is prescribed (Indications) : This medication is an emollient & skin protective, prescribed for diaper rash and other minor skin irritations. It provides a skin barrier to prevent and help heal skin irritation. When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): Hypersensitivity. Pregnancy Category : A B C D X Category A : Adequate and well-controlled human studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy (and there is no evidence of risk in later trimesters). Dosage & When it is to be taken : Topical- As cream/ointment: Use as directed. How it should be taken : It comes as an ointment and cream to apply topically as directed by your physician. Warnings and Precautions : * Caution should be exercised in patients with history of any allergy, during pregnancy and breastfeeding. * For external use only. * Avoid contact with eyes, nose or mouth. * It may be harmful if swallowed. Side Effects : Severe allergic reactions such as rash, hives, difficulty in breathing and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue. Other Precautions : * Avoid excess dosage. Storage Conditions : Store it at room temperature, and in an airtight container. Keep it away from sunlight and moisture.