Minerin Cream
It is used to treat or prevent certain skin problems.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Dermatological agent
Pharmacologic Class
Emollient; Skin protectant
Pregnancy Category
Category A
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Emollients are moisturizers that help to hydrate and protect your skin. They work by creating a protective layer on the skin's surface, which locks in moisture and helps to repair dry, damaged skin. They can make your skin feel softer, smoother, and less itchy.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication only as directed.
Application Instructions
Do not take this medication by mouth. It is for skin use only.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, ears, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
If your medication requires shaking before use, make sure to do so before applying it to the affected area.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area. In this case, do not wash your hand after application.
Clean the affected area before use and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the affected area as instructed by your doctor. You may need to cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing; consult with your doctor for guidance.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature and do not freeze it.
Check the storage information provided with the medication to determine how long it can be stored before disposal. If you have questions, consult with your pharmacist.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
Since this medication is often used as needed, do not use it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication only as directed.
Application Instructions
Do not take this medication by mouth. It is for skin use only.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, ears, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
If your medication requires shaking before use, make sure to do so before applying it to the affected area.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area. In this case, do not wash your hand after application.
Clean the affected area before use and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the affected area as instructed by your doctor. You may need to cover the treated area with a bandage or dressing; consult with your doctor for guidance.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature and do not freeze it.
Check the storage information provided with the medication to determine how long it can be stored before disposal. If you have questions, consult with your pharmacist.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
Since this medication is often used as needed, do not use it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Apply emollients immediately after bathing or showering while skin is still damp to lock in moisture.
- Use regularly, even when skin appears healthy, to maintain barrier function.
- Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that can strip natural oils from the skin.
- Pat skin dry instead of rubbing vigorously after washing.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers to prevent skin irritation.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply liberally to affected areas as needed, typically 2-3 times daily or more frequently.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
dry_skin:
Apply as often as necessary to maintain skin hydration, especially after bathing or washing.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Apply sparingly to affected areas as needed. Consult pediatrician for very young infants.
Infant:
Apply sparingly to affected areas as needed.
Child:
Apply liberally to affected areas as needed.
Adolescent:
Apply liberally to affected areas as needed.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Emollients work by forming an occlusive film on the skin surface, which reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and helps to retain moisture in the stratum corneum. They also fill in cracks and fissures in the skin, smoothing the surface and improving skin barrier function. Different emollient forms (cream, emulsion, gel, lotion, ointment) vary in their oil-to-water ratio, affecting their occlusiveness and feel.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption
Tmax:
Not applicable (topical action)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (localized action)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable
Clearance:
Not applicable
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable
Unchanged:
Not applicable
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (upon application)
PeakEffect:
Within minutes to hours (hydration and barrier improvement)
DurationOfAction:
Hours, depending on product formulation and environmental factors
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of skin infection, including:
+ Oozing
+ Heat
+ Swelling
+ Redness
+ Pain
Abnormal bleeding from the affected area
Fever
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
* Skin irritation
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of skin infection, including:
+ Oozing
+ Heat
+ Swelling
+ Redness
+ Pain
Abnormal bleeding from the affected area
Fever
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
* Skin irritation
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Increased redness or irritation after application
- Allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, swelling)
- Worsening of skin condition
- Signs of infection (e.g., pus, fever, spreading redness)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
If you have a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to a food or medication.
* If you have a bleeding wound.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
If you have a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to a food or medication.
* If you have a bleeding wound.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
Before using sunscreen with this drug, consult with your doctor to determine the best approach. Additionally, discuss with your doctor any other medications or products you plan to use on your skin, including soaps, to ensure safe use.
Certain brands of this medication may not be suitable for application on open sores, broken skin, or severe burns. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist for specific guidance.
Some products containing this drug may include metal, which must be removed before undergoing an MRI, cardioversion, radiation, or other medical procedures. It is crucial to discuss this with your doctor before any scheduled procedures.
If this medication is accidentally swallowed, it can cause harm. In such an event, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Before using sunscreen with this drug, consult with your doctor to determine the best approach. Additionally, discuss with your doctor any other medications or products you plan to use on your skin, including soaps, to ensure safe use.
Certain brands of this medication may not be suitable for application on open sores, broken skin, or severe burns. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist for specific guidance.
Some products containing this drug may include metal, which must be removed before undergoing an MRI, cardioversion, radiation, or other medical procedures. It is crucial to discuss this with your doctor before any scheduled procedures.
If this medication is accidentally swallowed, it can cause harm. In such an event, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Not applicable (topical product with minimal systemic absorption). Excessive application may lead to a greasy feeling or clogged pores in some individuals.
What to Do:
Wash off excess product with mild soap and water. If irritation occurs, discontinue use. For accidental ingestion, contact a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222) or seek medical attention, though systemic toxicity is highly unlikely.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition (visual inspection)
Rationale: To assess severity of dryness, irritation, or barrier dysfunction.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Skin hydration and integrity
Frequency: Daily or as needed
Target: Improved skin texture, reduced dryness, absence of cracking/itching
Action Threshold: If skin condition worsens or no improvement is seen after consistent use, consider alternative products or consult a healthcare professional.
Symptom Monitoring
- Reduced dryness
- Decreased itching
- Improved skin texture
- Reduced flaking or scaling
- Absence of irritation or redness
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk
Second Trimester:
Low risk
Third Trimester:
Low risk
Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during lactation. Avoid applying to areas where the infant may ingest the product (e.g., nipples) without wiping off first.
Infant Risk:
Low risk
Pediatric Use
Generally safe and effective for use in pediatric populations, including infants, for dry skin conditions. Choose fragrance-free and dye-free formulations for sensitive skin.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe and effective for use in geriatric populations. Older adults often have drier skin and may benefit significantly from regular emollient use.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- The choice of emollient formulation (cream, lotion, ointment) depends on the severity of dryness and patient preference. Ointments are generally more occlusive and moisturizing, while lotions are lighter and spread more easily.
- For optimal results, apply emollients within 3 minutes of bathing or showering to trap moisture.
- Apply in the direction of hair growth to minimize folliculitis.
- Consider patch testing a small area of skin if there is a history of skin sensitivities or allergies.
- Regular and consistent use is key for managing chronic dry skin conditions.
Alternative Therapies
- Topical corticosteroids (for inflammatory skin conditions)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (for inflammatory skin conditions)
- Antihistamines (for severe itching, if systemic cause)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely (e.g., $5 - $50+) per tube/jar
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Often OTC, may be covered by some insurance plans with prescription or for specific dermatological conditions.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more details. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.