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Zinc Oxide cream, ointment, paste

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.

What is this medication?

ZINC OXIDE (zingk OX ide) is used to treat or prevent minor skin irritations such as burns, cuts, and diaper rash. Some products may be used as a sunscreen.

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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, Desitin, Desitin Maximum Strength, Desitin Rapid Relief, Diaper Rash, Dr. Smith's, DynaShield, Flanders Buttocks, Medi-Paste, Novana Protect, Triple Paste, Z-Bum

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•an unusual or allergic reaction to zinc oxide, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine 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 doctor or health care professional tells you to. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug 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.

What if I miss a dose?

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.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use other skin products at the same site without asking your doctor or health care professional.

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.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if the area you are treating does not get better within a week.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

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.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of reach of children.

Store at room temperature. Keep closed while not in use. Throw away an unused medicine 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.

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