calamine

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

Anti-Itch: calamine’s primary action is relieving itching and irritation. It does so by cooling and soothing the affected area when applied topically. 

Anti-Inflammatory: calamine has anti-inflammatory effects as well. It can aid in minimising the redness and swelling brought on by various skin issues, including insect bites, poison ivy, and mild skin irritations. 

Spectrum: 

Insect Bites and Stings: calamine lotion is often applied to insect bites (e.g., mosquito bites), bee stings, and other insect-related skin irritations to reduce itching and inflammation. 

Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac: calamine can help alleviate the discomfort caused by contact with these plants, as it can ease itching and soothe the skin. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

pus 

Rash 

redness 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None  

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Hypersensitivity or Allergy: Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to calamine or its components should not use this medication. 

Open Wounds or Broken Skin: calamine is intended for external use only on intact skin. Avoid using it on open wounds, cuts, or broken skin, as it can lead to irritation and potential medication absorption into the bloodstream. 

Severe Skin Infections: calamine should not be used on skin areas with severe bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. Treating these infections requires specific medications prescribed by a healthcare professional. 

Underlying Medical Conditions: People with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, should use calamine cautiously. The absorption of the medication through the skin may be increased in such cases, potentially leading to adverse effects. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is advised to consult with a healthcare professional before taking calamine, especially if you have any concerns, even though it is often thought to be safe for topical use during pregnancy and nursing. 

Children: calamine is usually safe when used as directed, but following the recommended dosage and application instructions is essential. Consult a pediatrician before using calamine on infants or young children. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

<b>Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:

calamine is a medication that is primarily used topically to relieve itching and skin irritation associated with various skin conditions, including insect bites, rashes, sunburn, and poison ivy/oak 

Pharmacodynamics:  

Antipruritic (Anti-itch): 

calamine exerts its primary pharmacological effect as an antipruritic agent. It helps alleviate itching and discomfort associated with skin irritations and inflammatory conditions. It does so through several mechanisms: 

Cooling Sensation: calamine contains zinc oxide, This provides a cooling feeling upon skin contact. This cooling effect helps soothe the itch and provides relief. 

Drying Effect: calamine helps to dry out oozing or weeping skin lesions, reducing moisture and promoting healing.   

Pharmacokinetics: 

N/A 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Topical: Thoroughly mix before application. Use on freshly cleansed and dry skin, ensuring no contact with the eyes or mucous membranes. Refrain from using on open wounds or burns. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: calamine 

Why do we use calamine?  

Relief from Itching: calamine lotion is most well-known for its ability to relieve itching and discomfort associated with various skin conditions. It is often used to alleviate itching caused by insect bites (mosquitoes, bees, wasps), poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and other allergic reactions. 

Skin Irritations: calamine can be applied topically to soothe minor skin irritations, including rashes, sunburn, and minor burns. It helps reduce redness and inflammation. 

Skin Allergies: calamine can provide relief from itching and irritation caused by contact dermatitis and other skin allergies. 

Heat Rash: It can be used to alleviate the discomfort and itching associated with heat rash or prickly heat. 

Minor Skin Irritations: calamine can be applied to minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions to help soothe the skin and protect against infection.