Uses
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 gels). 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. Ointments may be better suited for dry areas and when a stronger effect or skin protection is desired. Gels may be more drying.
How To Use
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. These 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.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Redness, burning, dryness, 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.
Precautions
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 breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
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.
Overdose
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 their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
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.
Missed Dose
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.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
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.
