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Diethyltoluamide, DEET Topical Lotion or Spray

What is this medication?

DIETHYLTOLUAMIDE (dahy eth uhl TOL yoo uh mahyd), or DEET, prevents insect bites. It works by making insects less likely to bite you. It belongs to a group of medications called insect repellants.

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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): Coleman Insect Repellent, OFF! Active Insect Repellent, OFF! Deep Woods, OFF! Familycare Insect Repellent II, OFF! Familycare Insect Repellent III, OFF! Familycare Insect Repellent IV, OFF! Familycare Smooth & Dry, OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods Insect Repellent, Repel, ULTRATHON

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

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

  • Skin conditions or sensitivity
  • An unusual allergic reaction to diethyltoluamide, DEET, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

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?

Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

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

  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

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 and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.

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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