Caladryl lotion is a type of antihistamine medication since it can deal with skin-related symptoms of an allergic reaction experienced by a patient. It is medically enhanced with suitable chemical compounds that can deal with a variety of skin conditions without causing any harm to the skin of the patient. The main purpose behind using Caladryl lotion is the mitigation of skin hypersensitivities and inflammation. It is available as an over-the-counter product all around the world at local pharmacists, and may also be obtained without a valid doctor’s prescription as well. Caladryl lotion is manufactured as well as distributed by Piramal Healthcare Limited.
Uses and Benefits of Caladryl:
Caladryl lotion is used to treat a wide variety of skin related problems, some of which are mentioned as follows:
- Treatment of eczema
- Treatment of dermatitis
- Treatment of skin related complications caused as a result of an allergic reaction
- Rashes
- Itchiness of skin
- Redness of skin
- It also provides pain relief in case of insect bites and poison oak/poison ivy
Caladryl lotion is a mild corticosteroid and is safe for use by the general public. It treats the condition without causing any harm to the patient.
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Side Effects of Caladryl:
The use of some drugs and medicines can sometimes have unexpected side effects on the patient, other than its desired health benefit. Should such a situation arise, it is strongly advised that the patient seeks out medical attention immediately. Some of the observed side effects of the Caladryl lotion are as follows:
- Swelling of face
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Sickness, vomiting sensation
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Throat disorder
Apart from the above-mentioned side effects, the patient may experience other unforeseen side effects in case he or she is allergic to one or more components of the Caladryl lotion. In such a case, the patient must contact their doctor as soon as possible.
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Common Dosages of Caladryl Lotion:
Caladryl is for external use only, and should not be ingested orally. The application of the lotion should be limited to the affected area only, to prevent any unforeseen side effects. In case a person is allergic to any of the components of Caladryl lotion, they must seek medical help and get the dose adjusted.
Directions to use Caladryl lotion are:
- Wash the affected area thoroughly with water
- Apply the lotion gently on the skin of the affected area, either with the finger or using cotton.
- Let the lotion dry on the skin, and prevent the affected area from coming in contact with dust or any other substances.
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Composition and Nature of Caladryl:
Caladryl constitutes two main active ingredients, namely diphenhydramine hydrochloride and calamine. Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is present in the lotion as 0.1% w/v, whereas calamine is present in the lotion as 8% w/v.
Diphenhydramine is essentially an antihistamine that is employed to alleviate the symptoms of an allergic reaction, say fever, as well as to treat the common cold. These symptoms generally include watery eyes, itchy nose/throat, and sneezing among other things.
Caladryl is a mixture of zinc oxide and other components. It is also used in the treatment and prevention of mild itchiness. It is also helpful in the treatment of other skin conditions like sunburn, insect bites, as well as skin irritation.
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How It Works?
The two main components of Caladryl lotion, namely diphenhydramine hydrochloride and calamine provide immense functionality to it. While diphenhydramine hydrochloride helps relieve skin conditions and their related symptoms, calamine helps in relieving pain by interfering with the pain signals sent by neuroreceptors in the skin to the brain.
This lotion absorbs as well as controls sweat, which aids in preventing the accumulation of moisture and/or formation of pus. It also helps treat skin conditions by reducing redness, swelling as well as itching.
Caladryl lotion forms a physical protective covering over the affected area, which protects it against irritants, allergens as well as dust and dirt. This further speeds up the healing process.
Related Warnings/Precautions: When to avoid It?
- Patients must read the label carefully before using Caladryl lotion
- Do not massage or rub the Caladryl lotion onto the skin
- Do not apply the Caladryl lotion on an open wound
- Do not expose the lotion to direct sunlight
- Do not use without proper medical consultation if you are allergic to any of the components of this lotion.
- Using an excessive amount of lotion can lead to pilling. Hence, patients are strongly advised to use a thin layer of lotion to avoid piling.
Caladryl Lotion Substitutes:
Any lotion and/or medicine with a composition similar to that of this lotion can serve as viable alternatives for Caladryl lotion. Possible substitutes are:
- Belissa lotion
- Livalite lotion
- Scarab lotion
- Epilyno lotion
- Hidrate lotion
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Caladryl Lotion Interactions with Other Drugs:
It is for external use only, it is at minimum risk of drug interactions. However, it is advised that patients do not alter the dose without proper consultation with the doctor.
FAQs:
Ans: Caution should be used in patients with renal impairments, as prolonged use or overuse of this lotion may worsen the medical situation.
Ans: There are no recorded side effects of Caladryl lotion among breastfeeding women, but caution is advised.
Ans: This lotion should be stored out of direct sunlight, and must always be kept at room temperature.
Ans: Avoid covering the affected area with anything to prevent the formation of moisture. Covering with bandages may lead to the formation of pus.
