Crotamiton

Key points about crotamiton

  • Crotamiton is used to relieve itching, mainly when it's caused by scabies.
  • Crotamiton is also known as Itch-Soothe or Eurax.
  • Find out how to take it safely and possible side effects.
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Crotamiton is a cream that is used to relieve itch and skin irritation caused by skin conditions such as dermatitis. It's most commonly used for the itch that can persist for a few weeks after the treatment of scabies

Note: Crotamiton is not a treatment for scabies. It doesn't kill the scabies mite. Read more about how scabies is treated.  


Crotamiton is available on prescription and can also be bought over the counter from pharmacies.

Rub gently to the affected area 2 to 3 times daily, for itch and skin irritation.

Here are some things to know when you're taking crotamiton. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

  • Don't apply crotamiton to any areas of broken skin (eg, cuts, grazes or sores) or infected skin (eg, is red, swollen or has pus).
  • If your skin is dry, it may be making the itching worse. Try using an emollient (moisturiser) every day as this will help to keep your skin soft and hydrated. Emollients can be applied once or several times a day if your skin becomes very dry.
  • Be careful not to get crotamiton in your eyes. If you do, rinse it out with plenty of water.

Side effects to crotamiton are rare. Some people may get skin sensitivity or an allergic reaction such as worsening redness or itchy skin. This may be confused with a flare-up of the itch or it could also be from the scabies infection if your treatment wasn't successful. If you get this, stop using crotamiton and tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Resources

Brochures

5 questions to ask about your medications(external link) Health Quality and Safety Commission, NZ, 2019 English(external link), te reo Māori(external link)

References

  1. Crotamiton(external link) New Zealand Formulary

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Credits: Sandra Ponen, Pharmacist, Healthify He Puna Waiora. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.

Reviewed by: Angela Lambie, Pharmacist, Auckland

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