Zinc oxide is a medicated cream, ointment or paste that treats or prevents skin irritation like cuts, burns or diaper rash. Some types of zinc oxide protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You can rub this medication on your affected skin as directed. Don’t cover the area with a bandage unless your healthcare provider tells you to do so.
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ZINC OXIDE (zingk OX ide) prevents and treats skin irritations, such as diaper rash. It works by forming a barrier on the skin, which protects it and allows it to heal.
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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Aquaphor, Aquaphor 3 IN 1 Diaper Rash, Aquaphor Baby Fast Relief Diaper Rash, Aquaphor Fast Relief Diaper Rash, Balmex, Boudreaux Butt Paste, Carlesta, Coppertone, COZIMA, Critic-Aid Thick Moisture Barrier Skin, DermacinRx Zinctral, Desitin, Desitin Maximum Strength, Desitin Rapid Relief, Diaper Rash, Dr. Smith's, DynaShield, Flanders Buttocks, Medi-Paste, Novana Protect, PanOxyl AM, PeriShield, SECURA, Triple Paste, Triple Paste Adult Incontinence, Triple Paste Rash, Z-Bum
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription or product label. Wash your hands before and after use. Apply a generous amount to the affected area. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your care team tells you to. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
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Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
Interactions are not expected. Do not use other skin products at the same site without asking your care team.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Tell your care team if the area you are treating does not get better within a week.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature. Keep closed while not in use. Throw away an unused medication after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.