Calamine lotion is a soothing topical medication commonly used to relieve itching and minor skin irritations, such as those caused by insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and chickenpox. It typically contains zinc oxide and ferric oxide, which give it its characteristic pink color.

Calamine lotion works by cooling and drying the skin, which can help alleviate itching and provide some relief from discomfort. It's often applied directly to the affected area using a cotton ball or pad, and it can be reapplied as needed.

Calamine lotion is used primarily as an astringent, protectant, and soothing agent for skin conditions such as poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, insect bites, sunburn, or minor skin irritations.

Calamine lotion dose in adult

Calamine lotion Use as Skin protectant:  

• Calamine lotion helps protect your skin.
• Just put it on the area that's bothering you whenever you need to.

Calamine lotion Dose in Children

Calamine lotion for Skin irritation:  

• For skin irritation, like rashes or bug bites, you can use calamine lotion. If it's just calamine or zinc oxide, it's okay for babies who are at least 6 months old, kids, and teenagers. Put it on the area as often as you need. Some other calamine products can be used 3 to 4 times a day.
• If the lotion has pramoxine too, it's good for kids aged 2 and up, as well as teenagers. You can apply it up to 3 to 4 times a day as well. Always check the label for specific instructions, especially when it comes to children.

Calamine lotion dose in Pregnancy & lactation

• It is safe for use in pregnancy and lactation.
• Application over the nipples, wounds, ulcers and exposed parts of the body should be avoided.

Calamine lotion Dose in Renal Disease:

For people with renal problems, there is no need to alter the dosage.

Calamine lotion Dose in Liver Disease:

No dose adjustment is required in patients with liver disease.

Side Effects of Calamine lotion

Side effects include skin irritation, hives, itching, rash, and redness of the skin.

Contraindication to Calamine lotion include:

• If you're allergic or hypersensitive to any ingredient in the lotion, it's best to avoid using it.

Warnings and Precautions

OTC Medicine: Self-medication and OTC medication

• If you're using calamine lotion without a prescription, remember it's for external use only.
• Don't get it in your eyes or on your mucous membranes.
• If you've been using it for more than 7 days and your condition hasn't improved, or if it's getting worse, it's a good idea to stop using it.

Monitoring Parameters:

Monitoring is not required, however, patients with allergic skin conditions and insect bites should be monitored for clinical features of anaphylaxis.

How to use Calamine lotion?

• Shake well before using: Give the bottle a good shake.
• Apply to clean, dry skin: Make sure your skin is clean and dry before putting on the lotion.
• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes: Don't get the lotion in your eyes or on any sensitive areas.
• Do not use on open wounds or burns: If you have any cuts or burns, don't use the lotion on them.

Mechanism of action of Calamine lotion:

It is an antipruritic medicine that is used to treat mild skin irritition, itching, sunburns, and insectbite.

International brands of Calamine lotion:

• Caladryl
• Calagesic
• GoodSense Calamine
• Calamine 15% Lotion
• Calamine Lotion
• Calamol
• Ducilamina
• Intracal

Calamine lotion Brands in Pakistan: