GALENICOS CP-CALAMINE
CALAMINE; ZINC OXIDE
What it does
Calamine is a topical skin treatment commonly used to soothe and relieve irritation and itching.
Commonly used for: itchy skin, sunburn, insect bites, chickenpox …
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe · fetched 2026-04-18 08:22:07 · updated 2026-09-23 04:30:06
About calamine
Calamine is a topical skin treatment commonly used to soothe and relieve irritation and itching.
What it treats
- itchy skin
- sunburn
- insect bites
- chickenpox
- eczema
How it works
Calamine works by cooling the skin and providing a protective barrier to reduce irritation.
Who it's for
Calamine is suitable for adults and children who need relief from mild skin irritations.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About oxide
Oxide is a type of compound often used in various treatments. It is important to understand its uses and any precautions necessary when taking it.
What it treats
- treatment of certain skin conditions
- used in some respiratory therapies
How it works
Oxide works by interacting with the body in a way that helps improve certain health conditions.
Who it's for
Oxide may be suitable for individuals suffering from specific health issues as determined by their healthcare provider.
Cautions
- • Always follow the healthcare provider's instructions when using this compound.
- • Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: calamine
BNF-referencedCalamine is a topical medication primarily used for its soothing properties in the treatment of minor skin irritations, including insect bites, sunburn, and rashes. It typically contains a mixture of zinc oxide and ferric oxide, which contribute to its protective and anti-itching effects.
Indications
- Mild skin irritations
- Insect bites
- Sunburn
- Rashes
- Prickly heat
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing guidelines based on age and condition.
Adults: Apply to the affected area as needed, usually 2 to 4 times daily.
Mechanism of action
Calamine exerts its effects mainly through the astringent properties of zinc oxide and the soothing effects of ferric oxide. It helps to dry out oozing and weeping skin, while also providing a cooling sensation to alleviate discomfort.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of calamine involve its ability to act as a protective barrier on the skin, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with various skin conditions. The astringent properties help to reduce moisture and inflammation, making it effective for soothing skin irritations.
Pharmacokinetics
Calamine is applied topically and is not significantly absorbed into systemic circulation, which minimizes systemic side effects. Its local effects are immediate upon application, providing rapid relief from symptoms like itching and inflammation.
Pregnancy
Calamine is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, as it is a topical agent with limited systemic absorption.
Breast-feeding
Calamine is also considered safe for use during breastfeeding, as it is unlikely to pose a risk to the nursing infant.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Calamine lotion
- Calamine cream
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: oxide
BNF-referencedOxide refers to a chemical compound that contains at least one oxygen atom and one other element. Oxides can be formed from a variety of elements, and their properties can vary significantly depending on the specific elements involved. Common oxides include metal oxides, such as iron oxide (rust), and non-metal oxides, such as carbon dioxide. In a pharmaceutical context, oxides may play roles as inactive ingredients or act as preservatives or stabilizers in drug formulations.
Mechanism of action
Oxides do not have a single mechanism of action as they are a broad category of compounds. However, in general, metal oxides can exhibit catalytic properties, while non-metal oxides may participate in biochemical reactions by forming acids or bases upon dissolution in water.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of oxides depend on the specific type of oxide and its interaction with biological systems. For instance, metal oxides may have antimicrobial properties, while certain non-metal oxides can influence metabolic pathways through their acid-base chemistry. The effects vary widely, necessitating specific studies for each oxide's role in therapeutic contexts.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of oxides are also variable. Many metal oxides are poorly soluble and thus have limited absorption when ingested. Non-metal oxides, such as carbon dioxide, can be readily absorbed and utilized in metabolic processes. The distribution, metabolism, and excretion of oxides depend on their chemical form and the biological system in which they are involved.
Pregnancy
Not applicable as oxide is not a drug but a class of chemical compounds.
Breast-feeding
Not applicable as oxide is not a drug but a class of chemical compounds.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: calamine
PubChem CID 23083748Molecular formula: Fe2O4Zn
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
Molecular reference: oxide
PubChem CID 190217Molecular formula: O-2
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.
- ANOMEX OINTMENT (Each gram contains Hydrocortisone Acetate/Lidocaine/Zinc Oxide/Allantoin 0.25%w/w/3%w/w/5%w/w/0.5%w/w) · Kremoint Pharma
- BABY BOY GIRL DIAPER RASH CREAM · Ghandour Cosmetics
- BABY NAPPY RASH RELIEF CREAM (Each gram contains Zinc oxide/Castor oil 7.5%w/w/4.5%w/w) · Bells Sons & Company
- CHILDREN'S CALAMINE LOTION (Each ml contains Calamine/Zinc oxide 15%/5%) · Bells Sons & Company
- DAY BY DAY NAPPY RASH CREAM ( Zinc Oxide ) · Bliss Gvs Pharma
- ENCIFER INJECTION · Emcure Pharmaceuticals
- ANOMEX COMBINATION PRODUCT OINTMENT
- ANOMEX COMBINATION PRODUCT SUPPOSITORY
- ANUCARE 107.5/18.8/12.5MG/G OINTMENT
- ANUCARE 300/50/33MG SUPPOSITORY
- ANUSOL_OINTMENT 22.5/8.75/107.5/1G OINTMENT
- ANUSOL_SUPPOSITORY 59/24/296 SUPPOSITORY