Crotan

Generic name: crotamiton topical [ crow-TA-mi-ton ]
Drug class: Topical anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 4, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Crotan?

Crotamiton is an anti-parasite medicine that kills certain parasites that live or lay eggs in your skin.

Crotan (for the skin) is used to treat scabies and to reduce itching associated with certain skin conditions.

Crotan may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Crotan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Crotan may cause serious side effects. Stop using Crotan and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using this medicine.

Common side effects of Crotan may include:

• mild itching or new rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Related/similar drugs

permethrin topical, Elimite, Eurax, lindane topical, Nix Lice Control, crotamiton topical

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Crotan if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a topical medication.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether crotamiton topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Crotan is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I use Crotan?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take by mouth. Crotan is for use only on the skin. Do not use this medicine on swollen or oozing skin. If this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth, rinse with water.

Shake the lotion well just before each use.

To treat itching:

• Massage the medicine into the affected areas until it is completely absorbed. Repeat as needed.

To treat scabies:

• Take a bath or shower and dry your skin thoroughly before applying this medicine.

• Apply a thin layer of the cream or lotion to all body parts from the neck down to the soles of your feet (scabies does not usually infect the head).

• Be sure the medicine gets into all the folds of your skin, between your toes and fingers, and underneath your nails. Scabies are likely to stay under the nails if the area is not treated. Keep the nails trimmed short.

• Leave the medicine on for 24 hours. Then apply a second dose without washing your skin first.

• Thoroughly wash off the medicine 48 hours after the last application.

Call your doctor if you still have itching 2 to 4 weeks after you finish treatment for scabies.

To prevent reinfection, wash all clothing, hats, bed clothes, bed linens, hair brushes, and combs with a strong cleanser in hot water to remove any mites or eggs.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

You will need to use both doses of Crotan, 24 hours apart. If you miss the second dose, you may need to start your treatment over.

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of crotamiton topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using Crotan?

Avoid getting Crotan in your eyes or mouth.

Parasite infestations are highly contagious. Using this medicine will not prevent you from passing scabies to other people. Avoid sexual or intimate contact until the infestation has cleared up. Also avoid sharing hair combs, hair accessories, hats, clothing, bed linens, and other articles of personal use.

What other drugs will affect Crotan?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied crotamiton. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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