DIPHENHYDRAMINE/CALAMINE - TOPICAL

DIPHENHYDRAMINE/CALAMINE - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (dye-fen-HI-druh-meen/CAL-uh-mine)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Caldyphen, Ivarest

GENERIC NAME(S): diphenhydramine HCl/calamine

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat itching and pain caused by minor burns/cuts/scrapes, sunburn, insect bites, minor skin irritations, or rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac. Diphenhydramine belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. It works by preventing the effects of a certain natural substance (histamine) that causes itching. Calamine helps to dry the oozing and weeping caused by irritation from poisonous plants. Use of this medication is not recommended in children younger than 2 years unless directed by the doctor.


How to use DIPHENHYDRAMINE/CALAMINE - TOPICAL

HOW TO USE: Use this medication on the skin only. Some products may need to be shaken well before use. Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. Before applying, clean the affected area with soap and water. Gently pat dry. Apply to the affected area as directed, usually 3 to 4 times a day. Wash hands immediately after use, unless the area being treated includes the hands. Do not use on large areas of the body or apply more often than directed. Do not use on chickenpox or measles. Do not use with other products that contain diphenhydramine (e.g., allergy medication taken by mouth). Your condition will not clear faster, but side effects may be increased. Avoid getting the product in your eyes, nose, ears, or mouth. If the medication gets in these areas, rinse the area right away with clean water. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 7 days of treatment. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Mild stinging, redness, swelling, or dry/flaky skin may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to diphenhydramine or calamine; or to other ingredients that may be in your brand (e.g., camphor, menthol); or to dimenhydrinate; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: chickenpox, measles. Though very unlikely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed into your blood. Children using this drug for an extended time over large areas of the skin (especially areas with broken skin) may be at higher risk, especially if they also are using other diphenhydramine products taken by mouth or applied to the skin. Stop using this product and tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: enlarged pupils, face flushing, mental/mood changes, difficulty walking, difficulty urinating. During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription/nonprescription medications you may use. Do not use with any other diphenhydramine product applied to the skin or taken by mouth because increased side effects may occur. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without talking to your doctor or pharmacist first. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: mental/mood changes, extremely dry mouth, slurred speech, trembling hands/feet, confusion, seizures.

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Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.