Generic name: zinc oxide topical (ZINK OX ide)
Brand name: ARC, Balmex, Boudreaux Butt Paste, Caldesene, Calmol-4 Suppository, Critic-Aid Skin Paste, Delazinc, Desitin, Dr. Smith's Rash + Skin, Flanders Buttocks Ointment, Geri-Protect, Pinxav, Rash Relief, Secura Protective Cream, Seniortopix Healix, Unna-Flex Elastic Unna Boot 4 inch, Z-Bum, Znlin, RVPaque, Unna-Flex(obsolete), PNS Unna Boot, Lassars Zinc, Sportz Block Light, Sportz Block Medium, Sportz Block Dark, Nupercainal Suppository, Desitin Creamy Diaper Rash Ointment, Vaginex Powder, Yeast-X Powder, Mexsana, Critic Aid, Tronolane Suppositories, Calmoseptine Ointment (obsolete), Zincofax, Desitin Creamy, Secura Antifungal Extra Thick(obsolete), Triple Paste, Johnsons Diaper Rash, Penaten Soothing, Aveeno Diaper Rash, Diaper Rash Ointment, Diaper Relief, PeriGuard, Unna Boot Primer (obsolete), Medi-Paste, Dermagran BC, Dr. Smith's Diaper, Soothe & Cool Skin Paste, Unna-Flex Elastic Unna Boot 3 inch, Desitin Maximum Strength Original, Desitin Rapid Relief Creamy, Dr. Smith's Diaper Rash, Dr. Smith's Adult Barrier, Secura Extra Protective Cream, Balmex Adult Care, Balmex Diaper Rash, Boudreaux's Maximum Strength Butt Paste, Desitin Maximum Strength, Unna Boot Primer
Dosage forms: rectal suppository (10%); topical cream (-; 10%; 11.3%; 13%; 22%; 30.6%); topical dressing (-); topical lotion (-); topical ointment (-; 10%; 16%; 20%; 30%; 40%); topical paste (20%; 40%); topical powder (15%); topical spray (10%; 25%); topical stick (11.3%)
Drug class: Miscellaneous topical agents
Zinc oxide is a mineral.
Zinc oxide topical (for the skin) is used to treat diaper rash, minor burns, severely chapped skin, or other minor skin irritations.
Zinc oxide rectal suppositories are used to treat itching, burning, irritation, and other rectal discomfort caused by hemorrhoids or painful bowel movements.
There are many brands and forms of zinc oxide available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Zinc oxide topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use zinc oxide topical if you are allergic to zinc, dimethicone, lanolin, cod liver oil, petroleum jelly, parabens, mineral oil, or wax.
Zinc oxide topical will not treat a bacterial or fungal infection. Call your doctor if you have any signs of infection such as redness and warmth or oozing skin lesions.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How should I use zinc oxide topical?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. A rectal suppository is for use only in your rectum.
Apply enough of this medicine to cover the entire area to be treated. Zinc oxide often leaves a thin white residue that may not be entirely rubbed in.
To treat chapped skin, minor burn wounds, or other skin irritations, use the medication as often as needed. Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub in gently.
To treat diaper rash, use zinc oxide topical each time the diaper is changed. Also apply the medicine at bedtime or whenever there will be a long period of time between diaper changes. Change wet diapers as soon as possible. Keep the diaper area clean and dry.
When using the zinc oxide topical powder, pour the powder slowly to avoid a large puff into the air. Do not allow a baby to handle a powder bottle during use. Always close the lid after using the powder.
Wash your hands before and after inserting the rectal suppository.
Remove the wrapper before inserting the suppository. Avoid handling the suppository too long or it will melt. Lie on your back with your knees up toward your chest. Gently insert the suppository into your rectum about 1 inch, pointed tip first.
Stay lying down for a few minutes while the suppository melts. You should feel little or no discomfort. Avoid using the bathroom for at least an hour.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube cap tightly closed when not in use.
You may store zinc oxide rectal suppositories in a refrigerator to prevent melting.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since zinc oxide topical is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of zinc oxide is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.
What should I avoid while using zinc oxide topical?
Do not use zinc oxide topical on deep skin wounds or severe burns.
Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with zinc oxide unless your doctor tells you to.
Rinse with water if zinc oxide topical gets in your eyes.
Zinc oxide topical side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using zinc oxide rectal suppositories and call your doctor if you have rectal bleeding or continued pain.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Zinc oxide topical dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Dermatologic Lesion:
Zinc oxide dressing: Apply as needed, wrap affected area without tension
Comments:
-The manufacturer product information should be consulted for complete application directions.
Usual Adult Dose for Diaper Rash:
Zinc oxide 10%, 11.3%, 13%, 16%, 20%, 22%, 30.6% and 40% cream, 16% and 20% ointment, 12.8% and 40% paste, 15% powder, and 25% spray: Apply liberally as often as needed with each diaper change, especially at bedtime or any time exposure to soiled diapers may be prolonged
Comments:
-For external use only
-Change wet/soiled diapers promptly, cleanse diaper area and allow to dry.
Usual Adult Dose for Hemorrhoids:
10% Zinc oxide suppositories: 1 suppository rectally up to 6 times daily or after each bowel movement
Comments:
-For rectal use only; gently cleanse and dry affected area prior to application.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Diaper Rash:
Zinc oxide 10%, 11.3%, 13%, 16%, 20%, 22%, 30.6% and 40% cream, 16% and 20% ointment, 12.8% and 40% paste, 15% powder, and 25% spray: Apply liberally as often as needed with each diaper change, especially at bedtime or any time exposure to soiled diapers may be prolonged
Comments:
-For external use only
-Change wet/soiled diapers promptly, cleanse diaper area and allow to dry.
What other drugs will affect zinc oxide topical?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.