MedlinePlus Drug Information: Pramoxine

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Other drug names:	A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9

Pramoxine

(pra mox' een)

Brand name(s): Epifoam; Fleet Relief; Itch-X; PrameGel; Prax; Tronolane; ProctoCream-HC; ProctoFoam-HC

Contents of this page:
Why is this medication prescribed? How should this medicine be used? What special precautions should I follow? What should I do if I forget a dose?	What side effects can this medication cause? What storage conditions are needed for this medicine? What other information should I know?

Why is this medication prescribed?

Pramoxine is used to relieve pain and itching from insect bites, poison ivy, poison oak, soaps, cosmetics, jewelry, or minor burns. It also may be used to treat discomfort due to hemorrhoids and other rectal disorders.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Pramoxine comes as a cream, gel, lotion, and spray to apply to the affected area. It also is available as a foam, cream, and suppository to be used for treatment of hemorrhoids or other rectal conditions. It usually is applied several times a day. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use pramoxine exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

If you are using pramoxine on your skin, do not use it on large areas, especially if the skin is broken or scraped. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Open skin may increase the risk of side effects from pramoxine. Do not apply it in or around your eyes. Unless directed by your doctor, do not use bandages or wraps after pramoxine is applied.

If you are using pramoxine rectally, apply the medicine with the applicator that comes in the package or a 'finger cot.' If you use the applicator, be sure to wash it carefully after each use. If you are using prefilled applicators, throw them away after use. Pramoxine aerosol foam also comes with an applicator; be sure to wash it carefully after each use.

If a pramoxine suppository is too soft, place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cool water over the foil package. To insert a pramoxine suppository, follow these steps:

Remove the wrapper.
Dip the tip of the suppository in cold water.
Lie down on your left side and raise your right knee to your chest. (A left-handed person should lie on the right side and raise the left knee.)
Using your finger, insert the suppository high into your rectum. Hold it in place for a few moments. Try to keep it there for as long as possible.
Wash your hands thoroughly.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before using pramoxine,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pramoxine or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking pramoxine, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from pramoxine are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

burning
dryness
itching

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

blood blisters; bruising; dark red, wart-like spots
hives or severe itching
difficulty breathing
acne-like skin changes
blurred vision
confusion
dizziness
drowsiness
trouble breathing

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after using pramoxine for a few days, call your doctor. You may have another, more serious, condition.

Last Revised - 01/01/2003

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. Disclaimer