Vaseline

There are many brands and types of petrolatum topical available. Not all brands are mentioned in this leaflet.

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

Vaseline 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.

Vaseline helps seal out wetness and is useful in preventing diaper rash or skin irritation caused by bladder or bowel incontinence.

Vaseline 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 Vaseline 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 Vaseline to breast areas that may touch the baby's mouth.

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

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

You may experience less serious side effects, or you may not have any side effects at all.

This is not a full 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 Vaseline is used as needed, you might not have a 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 once.

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

Do not get Vaseline in your eyes.

Medicine applied to the skin is not likely to be influenced by other medications you take. However, many medications can interact with one another. Inform all your healthcare providers about every medicine you are using, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.