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What is Zinc Oxide cream, ointment, paste?

Zinc oxide is used to treat or prevent minor skin irritations such as burns, cuts, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and diaper rash. It is also used as a sunscreen. Generic zinc oxide topical products are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• latex allergy
• an unusual reaction to Zinc Oxide, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

Zinc oxide skin products are for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription or product label. Apply a generous amount of cream, ointment or paste to the affected area. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you to. Wash your hands before and after use.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What drug(s) may interact with Zinc Oxide?

There are no known interactions between zinc oxide skin preparations and other drugs.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about other skin products you are using. Do not apply zinc oxide at the same site as other skin preparations without advice.

What should I watch for while taking Zinc Oxide?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if the area you are treating does not get better within a week.

Do not get zinc oxide skin products in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eye with plenty of cool tap water.

If you are allergic to latex and using zinc oxide paste, do not use latex products over the same area you are applying the zinc oxide paste.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Zinc Oxide?

There have been no side effects reported with topical zinc oxide. However, if you experience any unusual effects while using zinc oxide, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C).

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

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.