Indications
Pramoxine (Pramocaine) is a numbing medicine applied to the skin or around the anus. It gives short-term relief from itching, pain and burning due to insect bites, minor skin irritation, minor burns and sunburn, scratches, dermatitis and itchy rashes, and from the discomfort of piles (haemorrhoids) and anal fissures. Some products combine it with a mild steroid such as Hydrocortisone to also reduce swelling.
How It Works
Pramoxine is a topical anaesthetic that is chemically different from “caine” medicines such as Lidocaine and Benzocaine, so it can sometimes be used by people sensitive to those. It stops nerve endings in the skin from passing on pain and itch messages by blocking sodium channels, which numbs the treated area for a few hours.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and children 2 years and older: apply a thin layer to the affected skin 3 to 4 times a day, or as the label directs. For piles, gently clean and dry the area, then apply up to 5 times a day, especially after each bowel movement. Products containing a steroid should be used only for the time stated on the label, usually no more than 7 days, unless a doctor advises otherwise. Wash hands after applying.
Interactions
When used as directed on small areas, it is not expected to interact with other medicines. Do not use other numbing or steroid creams on the same area at the same time unless your doctor tells you to.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Pramoxine or other ingredients, on large or deep wounds, severe burns, broken or infected skin, or near the eyes. Combination steroid products should not be used on untreated skin infections (fungal, viral or bacterial).
Side Effects
It is usually well tolerated. Some people notice mild stinging, burning, redness or dryness where it is applied. Allergic skin reactions are rare. Long or heavy use of steroid-containing combinations may thin the skin.
Get urgent medical help if you have a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Stop and see a doctor if the area becomes more red, swollen or painful, or if you notice bleeding from the back passage.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Only small amounts are absorbed through the skin, and occasional short-term use on a small area is unlikely to cause harm. Still, check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it in pregnancy or while breastfeeding, especially combination products with a steroid. Do not apply to the nipple area before feeding.
Precautions and Warnings
For external use only. Keep away from the eyes. Stop use and see a doctor if symptoms do not improve within 7 days, get worse, or keep coming back. Children under 2 years should be checked by a doctor first. Rectal bleeding, especially with changes in bowel habits, needs medical assessment.
Overdose
Using too much on the skin is unlikely to cause serious harm. If a child swallows the product, contact a doctor or poison centre for advice.
Therapeutic Class
Topical anaesthetic and anti-itch agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the cap tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.