Pramoxine is an anesthetic used on the skin to relieve
minor pain, itching, and discomfort. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid
that reduces redness, swelling, and itching. This combination medication is
used to treat certain skin conditions such as eczema, rash, scrapes, insect
bites, or minor burns.
This combination product for the skin is available in
different strengths and forms (such as creams, ointments, and lotions). The
type of medication used depends on the location of your condition and the
type of skin problem being treated. Creams are the most often used form.
Lotions may be better suited to hairy areas. Ointments may be better suited
for dry areas and when a stronger effect or skin protection is
desired.
Shake the bottle well before each dose. Before applying
the medication, clean the affected area with mild soap and water, rinse
well, and pat dry. Gently rub a small amount of the medication into the
affected area and surrounding skin in a thin layer as directed by your
doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a day. How often the medication is applied and
for how long depends on your condition and response to
treatment.
Wash hands immediately after use unless the area being
treated includes the hands. Avoid getting the product in your eyes, nose,
ears, or mouth. If the medication gets in these areas, rinse immediately
with clean water.
Do not cover the area with waterproof bandages or
plastic, apply heat, or use the product on large areas of the body unless
directed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant,
do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. This may increase the
risk of side effects.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most
benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each
day.
Do not use more of this product, use it more often, or
keep using it longer than prescribed by your doctor. If you have been using
this medication for a long time or in high doses, do not suddenly stop
using it without your doctor's approval. Some conditions may become worse
when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually
decreased.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Redness, burning, or itching at the application site may
occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because 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:
- change in skin appearance (such as color, thickness)
- signs of skin infection (such as heat, tenderness, pus)
- signs of serious infection (such as sore throat that doesn't
go away, fever)
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 pramoxine; or to hydrocortisone; 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:
- diabetes
- eye problems
- infections (especially skin infections)
- liver disease
Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too
much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more
details
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. It should not be used for long periods of time or in
large amounts. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication 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.
Use this medication for your current condition only. Do
not use it later for other skin problems unless told to do so by your
doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those
cases.
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 double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature. 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.