Drug Info:
Echinacea skin ointment
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What is echinacea skin ointment?
ECHINACEA skin ointment (ViraMedx® Ointment) is a topical herbal remedy available for non-prescription use. This skin ointment is promoted for treating cold sores, which are caused by one of the herpes viruses. The echinacea mixture acts as an antiseptic and inhibits (but does not kill) the virus. In addition to echinacea, the ointment also contains a drug called pramoxine, which is a mild local anesthetic used as a pain reliever. Medical study to date does not support using echinacea skin ointment for any other purpose other than for cold sores.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
It is important for you to tell your prescriber or other health care professional that you are using echinacea. Some herbs exert potent effects and may interact with other drugs you are taking.You should discuss echinacea skin ointment with your health care professional BEFORE using it if you have any of these conditions:
• an autoimmune disorder, like lupus
• an immunodeficiency syndrome like HIV-virus infection or AIDS
• cancer
• chronic lung diseases, like asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis
• diabetes or high blood sugar
• kidney or liver disease
• multiple sclerosis or other chronic neurological disease
• organ transplant
• rheumatoid arthritis
• tuberculosis
• an unusual or allergic reaction to Echinacea, other herbs or plants, pramoxine or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This ointment is applied to the skin of the affected area several times per day. For external use only. Follow the directions on the package labeling, or talk to your health care professional for instructions on using. This ointment is most effective if you start applying it at the first sign of a cold sore.Echinacea skin ointment should not be used for longer than 7 days without the advice of a health care professional. A potential problem with self-treatment could be delay in detection of a serious skin problem.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this herb in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
Missing a dose is probably not harmful. If you miss a dose, simply resume applying the ointment as soon as you remember.What drug(s) may interact with echinacea?
Drug interactions with this skin ointment are not likely; however, if you are using other medicated creams or ointments, check with your health care professional. You may need to separate the times of application to the skin.For many herbs, interactions with other medications are unknown. That is why you should always be careful when mixing herbal remedies with traditional medications. If you take any other medications, consult with your health care professional prior to taking echinacea.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking echinacea?
Since echinacea is derived from a plant, allergic reactions are possible. Stop using this ointment if you develop a rash or an allergic-type reaction. You may need to inform your health care professional this has occurred.If your condition has not improved in 7 days or has worsened, contact your prescriber. This ointment is not intended for longer use without the supervision of a health care professional.
If you are scheduled to have surgery or dental work, remember to tell your dentist, surgeon and anesthesia specialist that you are using echinacea. In some cases they may want you to discontinue using the product prior to the surgery.
What side effects may I notice from using echinacea?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:• skin rash or itching
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.Store at room temperature; do not freeze. Throw away any unused ointment after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
