Zinc oxide and you

Generic Name: menthol/zinc oxide (MEN-thol/zink OX-ide)
Brand Name: Calmoseptine

Menthol/ zinc oxide ointment is used for:

Preventing and treating minor skin irritations (eg, caused by cuts, scrapes, minor burns, perspiration, itching, wound drainage).

Menthol/zinc oxide ointment is an analgesic, antiseptic, antipruritic, and skin protectant combination. It works by temporarily relieving itching and pain. It also decreases moisture in the affected area.

Do NOT use menthol/ zinc oxide ointment if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in menthol/zinc oxide ointment
• you are treating a deep wound or puncture wound

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Slideshow: Practical Parenting: Common Medical Conditions That May Affect Your Baby

Before using menthol/ zinc oxide ointment:

Some medical conditions may interact with menthol/zinc oxide ointment. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with menthol/zinc oxide ointment. However, no specific interactions with menthol/zinc oxide ointment are known at this time.

Ask your health care provider if menthol/zinc oxide ointment may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use menthol/ zinc oxide ointment:

Use menthol/zinc oxide ointment as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Gently wash the affected area. Pat dry or allow to air dry.
• Apply a thin layer of menthol/zinc oxide ointment to the affected area as directed by your doctor or the package labeling. Rub in gently.
• Wash your hands right away after using menthol/zinc oxide ointment, unless your hands are part of the treated area.
• If you miss a dose of menthol/zinc oxide ointment and you are using it regularly, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to use it as directed by your doctor or on the package label.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use menthol/zinc oxide ointment.

Important safety information:

• Menthol/zinc oxide ointment is for external use only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get it in any of these areas, rinse at once with cool water.
• If your symptoms do not get better within 7 days or if they get worse, check with your doctor.
• Do not use menthol/zinc oxide ointment to treat deep wounds or puncture wounds.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using menthol/zinc oxide ointment while you are pregnant. It is not known if this medicine is found in breast milk after topical use. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use menthol/zinc oxide ointment, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.