![]() A puddle of calamine lotion next to a pink plastic bottle | |
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zinc oxide | astringent |
ferric oxide | antipruritic |
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Pronunciation | KAL-ə-mine[1] |
Other names | Calamine lotion |
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Routes of administration | Topical |
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Calamine, also known as calamine lotion, is a medication made from powdered calamine mineral that is used to treat mild itchiness.[2][3] Conditions treated include sunburn, insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak, and other mild skin conditions.[4][5] It may also help dry out secretions resulting from skin irritation.[1] It is applied on the skin as a cream or lotion.[2]
Side effects may include skin irritation.[4] It is considered to be safe in pregnancy.[4] Calamine is a combination of zinc oxide and 0.5% ferric oxide (Fe2O3).[6] The lotion is produced with additional ingredients such as phenol and calcium hydroxide.[6][7]
The use of calamine lotion dates back as far as 1500 BC.[8] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[9] Calamine is available over-the-counter as a generic medication.[5]