This medication has 2 types of ingredients (emollient,
keratolytic) that work together to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly,
itchy skin (such as that caused by eczema, keratosis, xerosis). Dry skin is
caused by a loss of water in the upper layer of the skin. Emollients are
substances that soften and moisturize the skin and decrease itching and
flaking. Emollients/moisturizers work by forming an oily layer on the top
of the skin that traps water in the skin. Petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil,
and dimethicone are common emollients.
Lactic acid, salicylic acid, and urea are keratolytics.
They increase moisture in the skin by softening/dissolving the horny
substance (keratin) holding the top layer of skin cells together. This
helps the dead skin cells fall off and helps the skin keep more water in.
Higher strengths of urea are used to treat corns, callous, and some nail
problems (such as ingrown nails). Urea is also used to help remove dead
tissue in some wounds to help wound healing.
Use this product as directed. Follow all directions on
the product package and prescription label. If you have any questions, ask
your doctor or pharmacist.
Some products need to be shaken before use. Check the
label to see if you should shake the bottle well before using. Apply to the
affected areas of the skin, usually 1 to 3 times a day or as directed by
your doctor. Rub in well until absorbed. How often you apply the medication
will depend on the product and your skin condition.
Apply to the skin/nails only. Avoid sensitive areas such
as your eyes, lips, inside your mouth/nose, and the vaginal/groin area,
unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or check the
label for directions about any areas or types of skin where you should not
apply the product (such as on the face, any areas of
broken/chapped/cut/irritated/scraped skin, or on a recently shaved area of
the skin). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more
details.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. Most moisturizers need water to work well. Apply the product after
bathing/showering/shampooing while the skin is still damp. For very dry
skin, your doctor may instruct you to soak the area before using the
product. Long, hot, or frequent bathing/washing can worsen dry
skin.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets
worse.
Burning, itching, stinging, redness, or irritation may
occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication,
remember that your doctor 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 right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- unusual changes in the skin (such as blistering, peeling,
turning white/soft/soggy from too much wetness)
- signs of skin infection
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away 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. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this product, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to any of the ingredients (such as urea,
lactic acid) in the product; or if you have any other allergies. This
product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- skin cuts/infections/sores
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun.
Check the label for any warnings or ask your doctor or pharmacist if you
need to take any special precautions when in the sun. Your
doctor/pharmacist may suggest that you limit your time in the sun, avoid
tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and wear protective clothing
when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have
skin blisters/redness.
Some products may stain/discolor clothing. Ask your
doctor or pharmacist for more details.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Some ways to help prevent dry skin include using
lukewarm (not hot) water when bathing, taking baths/showers less often
(such as every 1 to 2 days), keeping baths/showers short, and using a
humidifier when the air is very dry.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not use more often to catch
up.
Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Some products
(such as foams) may be flammable. Do not store or use flammable products
near an open flame. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.