Generic
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride 2% + Zinc Acetate 0.1% Topical
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride 2% + Zinc Acetate 0.1% Topical is a cream used for the treatment of pruritus, insect bites, rashes, and allergic skin conditions.
Description
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and works as a topical anti-allergic and analgesic by blocking the releases of histamine at its sources. Zinc is used as a skin protectant.
Indications
- Pruritus, insect bites, rashes
- Allergic skin conditions
- Mild sunburn, minor skin irritations
- Cuts or scrapes
Therapeutic class
Local Antipruritic, Topical Antihistamines
Pharmacological class
Topical Antihistamine + Skin Protectant
Pharmacology
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and works as a topical anti-allergic and analgesic by blocking the releases of histamine at its sources. Zinc acts as a cofactor in over 100 enzymes, plays a role in DNA synthesis, and supports a healthy immune system.
Mechanism of action
Diphenhydramine blocks histamine receptors to relieve itching and pain; Zinc provides skin protection and aids in healing.
Dosage
Adults and children above 2 years: Apply to the affected area 3 to 4 times daily.
Children under 2 years: Apply under medical advice (avoid eye and mouth area, leave for at least 8 hours).
Administration
For external use only. Before application, the skin should be clean, cool and dry. Apply the cream lightly on the skin until the cream disappears.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed dose.
Side effects
Common: Skin rash, urticaria, photosensitivity.
Rare: Contact dermatitis (mild erythematous vesicular lesions and papules).
Precautions & warnings
For external use only. Flammable, keep away from fire or flame. Do not use on large areas of the body with any other product containing diphenhydramine. Avoid contact with eyes.
Contraindications
Known allergy to its components, other pyrethroids or pyrethrins.
Drug interactions
Aminoglycosides: Masks ototoxicity.
Levodopa: Increases gastric degradation and decreases absorption.
Cholinergic agents (tacrine, donepezil): Antagonizes therapeutic effects.
Valerian, St. John's wort, Kava Kava, gotu kola: May increase CNS depression.
Potentially Fatal: Potentiates CNS depression with alcohol, barbiturates, analgesics, sedatives, and neuroleptics.
Food interactions
Can be used with or without food.
Use in pregnancy
Use during pregnancy should only follow medical advice (teratogenic effects would not be anticipated).
Pregnancy Category: N/A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Caution should be exercised in nursing mothers; levels in breast milk following topical application are likely to be very low.
Pediatric use
Children under 2 years: use under medical advice.
Geriatric use
No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No special precautions are necessary for patients with kidney or liver problems.
Overdose effects
Excessive use may cause skin irritation.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Chemical structure
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride 2% + Zinc Acetate 0.1% Topical