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Crotamiton topical cream or lotion

Crotamiton treats scabies. Scabies are mites that cause small red bumps and severe itching. You can apply this cream or lotion to your skin after taking a bath or a shower. Follow the instructions on the label and repeat application of this lotion after 24 hours or as directed.

What is this medication?

CROTAMITON is a topical scabicide used for the treatment of scabies mites and itchy skin.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Crotan, Eurax

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

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

  • any raw or inflamed skin
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to crotamiton, 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. If you are using the lotion, shake the lotion well before use.

For scabies:

After taking a routine bath or shower, apply lotion or cream by massaging into the skin from the chin to the toes including skin folds and creases. Cut fingernails short and make sure to apply under fingernails too. A toothbrush may be used to apply under fingernails. If a toothbrush is used, wrap it in paper and discard it immediately after use. Accidental use of the same toothbrush in the mouth could cause poisoning. Do not apply the lotion or cream in the eyes or mouth. Do not apply to raw, weeping, or inflamed skin. A second application 24 hours later is recommended. Clothing and bed linen should be changed the next morning. Contaminated clothing and bed linen may be washed in the hot cycle of the washing machine or dry-cleaned. A cleansing bath should be taken 48 hours after the last use. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

For itchy skin:

Massage the cream or lotion into itchy patches until the medication is absorbed into your skin; repeat as needed. Do not apply in the eyes or mouth. Do not apply to raw, weeping, or inflamed skin.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

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.

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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 any other skin products on the affected area 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.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

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
  • spreading of lesions
  • severe skin irritation

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • cooling sensation on the skin or mild skin irritation

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 the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any 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.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Terms of use.

Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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