Do you or someone in your family itch unbearably, especially at night? Are there small blisters all over your body and the skin is covered in scabies? This can often be caused by scabies . So, Crotamiton is a medicine that doctors often recommend for scabies and other itchy skin conditions. Today, let's learn more about Crotamiton cream or lotion.
What is Crotamiton?
Simply put, Crotamiton is a skin-scaly medication. It is mainly used to kill mites that cause scabies and control the severe itching that occurs as a result. Think about it, these scabies mites are tiny creatures that live in small burrows under our skin, and are so small that they are invisible to the naked eye. Crotamiton kills these mites. Not only that, but this medication is also used to control skin itching caused by other causes other than scabies. In Sri Lanka, you may see it under brand names like Crotan or Eurax.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medication for you, there are a few things you should definitely tell them. It is very important for your safety to tell them.
- If you have any wounds , scratches , or areas of fluid leaking from your skin, please tell us about it.
- You are allergic to Crotamiton or any other medicine, food, or dye (If you have an allergy , be sure to mention it.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, please let us know.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother, don't forget to tell your doctor about it too.
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medicine is suitable for you or not, and how to use it.
How exactly do you use this?
The way you use this medicine will vary slightly depending on the condition you have. This is a topical medicine. Do not get it in your mouth or eyes. If you are using a lotion, shake the bottle well before using it.
| Usage | The correct way to use it |
|---|---|
| For scabies | 1. First, take a good shower, cleanse your body, and dry it well. 2. Then, massage this cream or lotion all over your body, from the neck down to the soles of your feet, between your fingers, and in areas where the skin folds (such as armpits and groin) so that it is well absorbed. 3. Trim your nails and file them well. You can use an old toothbrush for this. But when you're done using the toothbrush, wrap it in paper and throw it away. It can be poisonous if you accidentally put it in your mouth. 4. After 24 hours , apply the medicine again in the same way (there is no need to bathe a second time). 5. Finally , 48 hours after applying the medicine, take a good shower and wash your body to clean yourself. 6. Change all your clothes, used sheets, and towels the next morning, wash them in hot water, and dry them thoroughly in the sun. This will kill any mites on the clothes. |
| For normal itching | Massage the cream or lotion only on the affected area until it is well absorbed into the skin. Reapply as needed as directed by your doctor. There is no need to apply it all over your body. |
If you are giving this medicine to young children , talk to a pediatrician about it and get advice. It may require special care.
The most important thing to remember about scabies is that everyone in the household, even if they don't have symptoms, should be treated at the same time. It doesn't help if only one person is treated. This is because a person without symptoms can still have mites on their body and infect others. Therefore, the entire family should be treated together.
Things to be careful about when using medicine
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose at the same time.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you accidentally take too much of this medicine, or if you think someone else has taken it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Is there any interaction with other medications?
This medicine does not usually interact with other medications. However, do not apply any other creams or ointments to the area where you are using Crotamiton without first consulting your doctor. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (even vitamins).
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one may cause minor side effects in some people. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Side effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Severe allergic reactions – skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. | Stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor. |
| Spreading sores or blisters. | Seek medical advice. |
| Excessive redness, inflammation, and pain of the skin. | Stop using the medicine and inform a doctor. |
| A cool sensation on the skin or a slight burning/itching sensation. | It usually goes away after a while. If it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. |
Even after the mites are killed by the treatment, itching may persist for several weeks . This is because our body is reacting to the dead mites. Don't worry about it. But if the itching doesn't go away or gets worse, see your doctor again.
How to store the medicine?
- Do not leave this in places where small children can get hold of it .
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Keep away from extreme heat or extreme cold.
- Discard expired medication without using it.
Take-Home Message
- Crotamiton is a medicine used to treat scabies and other skin rashes.
- When treating cholera, as the doctor says, you should rub it all over your body, from the neck to the soles of your feet. Don't forget to rub it a second time in 24 hours.
- The most important thing is that if there is a lice infestation, everyone in the family or living together should receive treatment on the same day.
- During treatment, wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and dry thoroughly.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms ( swelling of the face , excessive itching), stop using the medicine and see a doctor immediately.
- Do not apply this medicine to your eyes, mouth, or broken skin.
- Always keep medicines out of the reach of children.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 What is Crotamiton cream used for?
Crotamiton is a topical medication (lotion/cream) used to treat scabies and other common skin irritations. It works by killing the mites that burrow into the skin and lay eggs.
💬 What is the best way to apply this medicine to the skin?
First, wash your body thoroughly with soap and pat dry. Then, apply this medicine thoroughly to your entire body (excluding injured areas, face, and eyes) from the neck down to the soles of your feet. After 24 hours, apply it again in the same way without washing your body again.
💬 Why do I still itch after applying this medicine?
Even if all the mites are dead, you may still have some itching (post-scabietic itch) for a few weeks because their dead parts are still on your body. This is normal, so don't keep applying this medicine to stop itching. Take an allergy pill (Piriton) prescribed by your doctor.
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