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Hydrophor
Generic name: petrolatum topical
Brand names: Aquaphor Healing, Hydrophor, Vaseline, Vicks BabyRub
What is Hydrophor?
There are many brands and types of petrolatum topical available. Not all brands are included in this leaflet.
Petrolatum is a mineral oil made from petroleum. Hydrophor (for the skin) is used to help protect minor cuts, scrapes, burns, or eczema.
Hydrophor is also used to treat or prevent chapped lips or cracked skin, and to protect skin from the drying effects of wind or cold weather.
Hydrophor helps keep moisture out and is useful in preventing diaper rash or skin irritation caused by bladder or bowel incontinence.
Hydrophor may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I use Hydrophor?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Do not use this medicine on deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
You may apply Hydrophor as needed. First clean the area to be treated.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medicine for 7 days, or if your condition clears up and comes back.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
If you are breastfeeding, do not apply Hydrophor to breast areas that may touch the baby's mouth.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Hydrophor side effects
Hydrophor can cause serious side effects. Stop using Hydrophor and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- skin redness or tenderness;
- itching; or
- swelling.
You may be more likely to experience less serious side effects, and it is possible to have no side effects at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Contact your doctor for medical advice regarding side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Hydrophor is used as needed, you might not have a specific dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next one, just skip the missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of petrolatum 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 medicine.
Avoid getting Hydrophor in your eyes.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Hydrophor?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. However, many drugs can interact with each other. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.