Oilatum Cream 40 G

Oilatum Cream 40 G

Oilatum Cream is an emollient moisturizer specifically formulated to relieve and manage various dry skin conditions. It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited.

Composition

Oilatum Cream contains the active ingredients:

• Light Liquid Paraffin: 6.0% w/w
• White Soft Paraffin: 15.0% w/w

Other ingredients include Macrogol 1000 Monostearate, Cetostearyl Alcohol, Glycerol, Potassium Sorbate, Benzyl Alcohol, Citric Acid Monohydrate, Povidone, and Purified Water.

Uses

Oilatum Cream is indicated for the treatment of:

• Eczema (atopic eczema)
• Contact dermatitis
• Senile pruritus
• Ichthyosis
• Other related dry, itchy, and sensitive skin conditions.

It works by forming a protective film on the skin's surface, which helps to reduce trans-epidermal water loss, thus moisturizing, soothing, softening, and rehydrating the skin, and alleviating discomfort caused by dryness, itching, and irritation. It is fragrance-free.

Dosage and Administration

Apply Oilatum Cream to the affected area as often as required. It is particularly effective when applied immediately after washing to replenish essential skin oils and lock in moisture. Gently massage a thin layer into the skin. It is suitable for adults, children, and the elderly. For infants and young children, it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use, and it should not be used for children less than three years as efficacy and safety have not been established. This medicine is for external use only.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Redness
• Irritation
• Sensitization
• Application site reactions such as erythema, rash, pain, pruritus, or a skin burning sensation.

Rarely, application site hypersensitivity reactions, including dermatitis, may occur. Certain ingredients like Cetostearyl Alcohol and Potassium Sorbate may cause local skin reactions (e.g., contact dermatitis), and Benzyl Alcohol may cause allergic reactions and mild local irritation. If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Precautions

• Do not use if you have a known sensitivity or allergy to Light Liquid Paraffin, White Soft Paraffin, or any other ingredients in the cream.
• Avoid using on deep wounds, blisters, severe burns, or large areas of broken or infected skin.
• Fire Hazard Warning: The paraffin content in Oilatum Cream can make fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings) that has been in contact with the product burn more easily, posing a serious fire hazard. Do not smoke or go near naked flames when using this product. Washing fabrics may reduce product build-up but may not completely remove it.
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• If pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your doctor before using this medicine. While systemic exposure is low and effects are not anticipated, breastfeeding mothers should ensure any residual product is fully washed off the breast prior to feeding.
• Ingestion of the product may cause gastrointestinal irritation, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Storage

Store Oilatum Cream at a temperature below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the product after its expiry date.

What is Oilatum Cream used for?

Oilatum Cream is an emollient specifically formulated to treat and soothe various dry skin conditions. These include contact dermatitis, atopic eczema, senile pruritus, ichthyosis, and other related dry skin conditions. It helps to hydrate, moisturize, soothe, soften, and rehydrate dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin, also assisting in reducing itching, flaking, and irritation.

How does Oilatum Cream work?

Oilatum Cream contains active ingredients like Light Liquid Paraffin and White Soft Paraffin. These emollients work by forming a protective, occlusive film on the surface of the skin. This barrier helps to reduce trans-epidermal water loss, effectively locking in moisture and maintaining the skin's natural humidity levels. Additionally, Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone (Povidone) is included to enhance the strength and longevity of this protective film.

What is the usual dosage and how should it be applied?

Oilatum Cream can be used as often as required. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas and gently rub it in until absorbed. It is particularly effective when applied immediately after washing or bathing, as this helps to lock in moisture when the skin is most receptive. While it can be applied as needed, it is generally recommended to use it at least twice a day or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. It is suitable for adults, children, and the elderly.

What are the possible side effects of Oilatum Cream?

Oilatum Cream is generally well-tolerated. However, some individuals may experience mild skin irritation, redness, rash, pain, itching (pruritus), or a skin burning sensation at the application site. In rare cases, hypersensitivity reactions, including application site dermatitis, may occur. Ingredients such as Cetostearyl alcohol and Potassium sorbate may cause local skin reactions (e.g., contact dermatitis), and Benzyl alcohol may cause allergic reactions or mild local irritation. If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Is Oilatum Cream safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, no adverse effects are anticipated with the use of Oilatum Cream, as systemic exposure from topical application is low. For breastfeeding mothers, it is not known if the cream is excreted in human milk, but the risk to the infant is considered low due to minimal systemic exposure. It is advised that any residual product should be thoroughly washed off the breast area before breastfeeding to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant.

Can Oilatum Cream be taken with other medications?

There are no known drug interactions reported with Oilatum Cream. It can generally be used in conjunction with other skincare products. If you are using medicated creams or gels, it is advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on the appropriate order and timing of application.

What precautions should be taken while using Oilatum Cream?

Oilatum Cream is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. Do not use the cream if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients. Use with caution if you have a known sensitivity to white soft paraffin, light liquid paraffin, cetostearyl alcohol, potassium sorbate, or benzyl alcohol.

Fire Hazard Warning: Products containing paraffin can be flammable. Do not smoke or go near naked flames (such as candles, gas fires, or hobs) when using this cream. Fabrics (including clothing, bedding, and dressings) that have come into contact with Oilatum Cream burn more easily and pose a serious fire hazard. While washing may reduce product build-up, it may not completely remove the risk.

Avoid applying the cream to deep wounds, blisters, severe burns, or large areas of broken, infected, or weeping skin unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. For infants or very young children, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

What happens if a dose is missed?

Since Oilatum Cream is applied topically as needed, there isn't a strict "missed dose" protocol like with oral medications. If you forget to apply it at your usual time, simply apply it when you remember or when it is next required. Consistent and regular application, especially after washing, is key to managing dry skin conditions.

How should Oilatum Cream be stored?

Oilatum Cream should be stored at a temperature below 25°C. Do not freeze the product. Always keep the cream out of the sight and reach of children. Ensure that you do not use the product after its expiry date, which can be found on the packaging.