Zinc Oxide Ointment 454gm
It is used to treat or prevent diaper rash.It is used to treat skin irritation.It is used to treat poison oak, ivy, and sumac rashes.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Skin Protectant; Astringent
Pharmacologic Class
Topical Barrier Agent
Pregnancy Category
Category A (topical)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Zinc oxide ointment is a skin protectant that forms a barrier on your skin to help prevent and heal skin irritations like diaper rash. It keeps moisture away from the skin and helps soothe redness.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all accompanying information carefully. It is essential to use this medication as directed.
Application Instructions
Do not take this medication by mouth. It is for topical use on the skin only.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area, in which case you should not wash it after application.
Clean the affected area before use and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the affected area and gently rub it in.
Special Considerations
If using this medication on a diapered area, change the diaper frequently. Clean the affected area and allow it to dry before reapplying the medication, especially at bedtime.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missed Dose
* If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Since this medication is often used as needed, do not apply it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all accompanying information carefully. It is essential to use this medication as directed.
Application Instructions
Do not take this medication by mouth. It is for topical use on the skin only.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area, in which case you should not wash it after application.
Clean the affected area before use and dry it thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the affected area and gently rub it in.
Special Considerations
If using this medication on a diapered area, change the diaper frequently. Clean the affected area and allow it to dry before reapplying the medication, especially at bedtime.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.
Missed Dose
* If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Since this medication is often used as needed, do not apply it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Cleanse and dry the affected skin area thoroughly before applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin, even layer of ointment to cover the entire irritated area.
- Use with each diaper change for diaper rash prevention and treatment.
- Avoid getting the ointment in the eyes or mouth.
- Wash hands before and after application.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Zinc Sulfate 220mg Capsules
- Zinc Trace 1mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 56.7gm
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 28.4gm
- Zinc Sulfate 5mg/ml Inj, 5ml
- Zinc 50mg Tablets
- Zinc Sulfate 220mg Tablets
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 30gm
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 425gm
- Zinc Oxide Ointment 454gm
- Zinc Oxide 20% Ointment 60gm
- Zinc Sulfate 10mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Sulfate 220mg Capsules
- Zinc Sulfate 5mg/ml Inj, 5ml
- Zinc Sulfate 10mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Chloride 10mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Sulfate 3mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Zinc Sulfate 3mg/ml Inj, 10ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply liberally to affected area as often as needed, typically with each diaper change or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
diaper_rash:
Apply to clean, dry skin with each diaper change, especially at bedtime or anytime when exposure to wet diapers may be prolonged.
minor_skin_irritations:
Apply to affected area as needed.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Apply liberally to affected area as often as needed, typically with each diaper change.
Infant:
Apply liberally to affected area as often as needed, typically with each diaper change.
Child:
Apply liberally to affected area as often as needed.
Adolescent:
Apply liberally to affected area as often as needed.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Zinc oxide acts as a skin protectant by forming a physical barrier on the skin surface, which prevents irritation from moisture and friction. It also has mild astringent and antiseptic properties, helping to dry and soothe irritated skin and promote healing.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal to none systemically
Tmax:
Not applicable (topical, minimal systemic absorption)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Unchanged:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (upon application)
PeakEffect:
Continuous as long as applied
DurationOfAction:
Until removed or rubbed off
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
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 have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible 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. Your doctor is available to provide medical advice about side effects.
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
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 have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list does not include all possible 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. Your doctor is available to provide medical advice about side effects.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Rash worsens or does not improve within 7 days
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., pus, fever, severe pain, spreading redness)
- Allergic reaction (e.g., severe itching, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Bleeding or oozing from the affected area
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 symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If you have a deep wound or a puncture wound, as this may affect your treatment.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine whether it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other treatments.
Remember, do not start, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
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 symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
If you have a deep wound or a puncture wound, as this may affect your treatment.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine whether it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other treatments.
Remember, do not start, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and duration of treatment, and do not use this drug more frequently or for an extended period than recommended.
To avoid staining, take precautions to protect your clothing and fabrics when using this medication, as it may cause discoloration.
In the event of accidental ingestion, this drug can be harmful. If swallowed, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication, both for you and your baby.
To avoid staining, take precautions to protect your clothing and fabrics when using this medication, as it may cause discoloration.
In the event of accidental ingestion, this drug can be harmful. If swallowed, immediately contact a doctor or a poison control center for assistance.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication, both for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Topical overdose is unlikely to cause systemic effects.
- Accidental ingestion of large amounts may cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In very rare cases, large ingestions could lead to zinc toxicity (e.g., copper deficiency, anemia, immune suppression), but this is highly unlikely with typical topical use.
What to Do:
For topical overuse, simply wipe off excess. For accidental ingestion, seek medical attention or call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222). Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Symptom Monitoring
- Resolution of skin irritation/rash
- Absence of redness, swelling, or pain
- Signs of allergic reaction (e.g., increased redness, itching, swelling)
- Signs of secondary infection (e.g., pus, fever, worsening pain)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Considered safe for topical use during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known risks.
Second Trimester:
No known risks.
Third Trimester:
No known risks.
Lactation
Considered safe for topical use during lactation. Minimal systemic absorption means negligible transfer into breast milk. Avoid applying to the nipple area if breastfeeding to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Very low risk.
Pediatric Use
Widely used and considered safe for infants and children, especially for diaper rash. Follow product directions for age-appropriate use.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments or precautions are generally needed for geriatric patients. Use as directed for skin protection and irritation.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Zinc oxide is a cornerstone for diaper rash prevention and treatment due to its barrier properties.
- Ensure the skin is clean and dry before application for optimal effectiveness.
- A thick layer is not always necessary; a thin, even layer that covers the affected area is usually sufficient.
- Can be used for other minor skin irritations, chafing, and as a mild sunscreen (though specific sunscreen products are more effective for UV protection).
- Some formulations may be difficult to wash off completely, which is part of their protective function.
Alternative Therapies
- Petrolatum (Vaseline)
- Lanolin
- Dimethicone
- Calamine lotion (for drying/soothing)
- Hydrocortisone cream (for inflammation, under medical supervision)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 454gm ointment
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Over-the-counter (OTC), generally not covered by prescription insurance unless specifically prescribed for certain 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 information. If you have any questions or concerns about this 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 details about the medication, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to ensure you receive the best possible care.