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Overview: Crotamiton is a solution that is applied to the skin. It is used to treat a condition called scabies, which is caused by a tiny insect called a mite that gets into the skin. It is also used to treat itchy skin. The most common side effects are red and irritated skin. Before using this medicine, make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any skin problems or skin allergies you have had.

Uses

What is crotamiton used for?

Topical crotamiton is commonly used for the following conditions.

Crotamiton may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does crotamiton work (mechanism of action)?

Crotamiton kills tiny insects, such as the mites that cause scabies, by disrupting their nerves and muscles.

Topical crotamiton may relieve itching by blocking substances in the body that cause itching, such as histamine and serotonin. 

How is crotamiton supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Crotan
  • Eurax

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 10% topical lotion

How should I store crotamiton?

Topical crotamiton should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of crotamiton?

The most common side effects of crotamiton are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Skin redness, itching, or irritation

There may be other side effects of crotamiton that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of crotamiton?

While less common, the most serious side effects of crotamiton are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical crotamiton may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical crotamiton and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use crotamiton?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use crotamiton.

  • Crotamiton
  • Crotan
  • Eurax
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific crotamiton products they stock.

Skin Allergies. If you have developed allergic reactions to other medicines that are applied to the skin, you should not use topical crotamiton.

What should I know about crotamiton before using it?

Do not use crotamiton unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share crotamiton with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep crotamiton out of the reach of children.

Do not use topical crotamiton on raw or irritated skin.

Shake the bottle well before use. Topical crotamiton should only be applied to clean, dry skin. Do not get the medicine in your mouth, eyes, or vagina. If the medicine gets into the eyes, gently flush your eyes with water. Wash your hands thoroughly after use. Talk to your pharmacist or other healthcare provider if you are uncertain how to apply topical crotamiton.

If you are using topical crotamiton for scabies, you should wash your body well 48 hours (two days) after you last applied the medicine. Change your clothes and bedding the day after applying the medicine and wash them in hot water. 

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using crotamiton?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if crotamiton is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Skin Problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any skin conditions or skin allergies.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how topical crotamiton could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if topical crotamiton passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does crotamiton interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between topical crotamiton and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect topical crotamiton.

Does crotamiton interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between topical crotamiton and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much crotamiton?

If you or someone else has used too much crotamiton, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of crotamiton?

Topical crotamiton is meant to be applied only when needed. Use it as your healthcare provider recommends. Do not apply extra doses.