Petrolatum topical

There are many brands and forms of petrolatum topical available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Petrolatum is a mineral oil made from petroleum. Petrolatum topical (for the skin) is used to help protect minor cuts, scrapes, burns, or eczema.

Petrolatum topical 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.

Petrolatum topical helps seal out wetness and is helpful in preventing diaper rash or skin irritation caused by bowel incontinence.

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

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 petrolatum topical 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.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed.

If you are breastfeeding, do not apply petrolatum topical to breast areas that may touch the baby's mouth.

Petrolatum topical can cause serious side effects. Stop using petrolatum topical and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• skin redness or tenderness;
• itching; or
• swelling.

Less serious side effects might happen more often, and you may not experience any at all.

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

Since petrolatum topical is used as needed, you may not have a specific dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it’s almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

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

Avoid getting petrolatum topical in your eyes.

Medicine applied to the skin is not likely to interact with other drugs you take. However, many drugs can affect each other. Make sure to inform each of your healthcare providers about all the medicines you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.