1 May 2026Drugs for external use and antiseptics

Calamine lotion

Calamine lotion guidance for symptomatic treatment of pruritus.

This guide page is for structured reference only and does not replace a clinician, pharmacist, or emergency review. Dose choice, route choice, interactions, and safety decisions still need professional judgment.

Therapeutic action

Antipruritic drug.

Indications

Symptomatic treatment of pruritus.

Forms and strengths

Calamine 8% or 15% lotion, bottle.

Dose

Child and adult: one application 3 to 4 times daily in a thin layer.

Duration

According to clinical response.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

Clean the skin before applying the lotion.
Do not apply to exudative or superinfected lesions, mucous membranes, or eyes.
In case of contact with eyes or mucous membranes, flush immediately with plenty of water.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: no contra-indication. Do not apply to the breasts.
Shake the lotion well before using.

Source

MSF Essential drugs practical guidelines (January 2026)

This page reproduces the structured reference information for this batch while leaving out the Storage and Remarks sections.

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