Dermodrin – Use | Dose | Side Effects
Dermodrin is a medicine that contains the active substance called diphenhydramine. It belongs to the group of H1 antihistamines. It works by inhibiting the release of histamine (the chemical that is released mainly by mast cells in allergic reactions), therefore it is applied to the skin in the form of cream to treat following conditions:
Skin allergies
Insect bites
Urticaria (hives)
Sun allergy
Mild burns
Itching of the skin
Eczema
Wound itching
Precautions
Dermodrin cream should be avoided in patients who are allergic to the active substance diphenhydramine or other similar medicines.
This cream should be avoided in patients with open wound or damaged skin.
Also, it should be avoided in patients with varicose veins.
Use of this cream in patients with measles (rubeola) and in children under the age of 2 is not recommended. There is some report of child having underlying varicella illness who experienced toxicity after the application of topical diphenhydramine (active component of Dermodrin cream).
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight while using this cream as this can lead to sun sensitivity.
Dermodrin cream should be used only with extra precautions in patients who have difficulty breathing during sleep (also called sleep apnea).
If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks of using this medicine, you should call your doctor.
It should be used with extra precautions in patients above the age of 65.
Use of Dermodrin during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Dermodrin cream should not be used during pregnancy (especially during the first three months of pregnancy).
Dermodrin passes into breast milk, therefore breastfeeding should be avoided while using this cream.
How to use
In adults, this cream should be applied 4-6 times a day to the affected area.
Apply a thin layer of cream and gently rub it into the affected area.
After applying the cream wash your hands and avoid contact with eyes.
In children over the age of 2, Dermodrin cream should be applied 4-5 times a day.
If there are no signs of improvement after two weeks of using this medicine, you should call your doctor.
Avoid applying this cream on large areas of the skin.
Use with other medicines (Interactions)
Dermodrin cream should be avoided in combination with the following medicines:
Antidepressants, medications used in the treatment of depression, especially from the group of tricyclic antidepressants and MAO inhibitors, such as: moclobemide, selegiline, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine, imipramine, amitriptyline, desipramine, nortriptyline, and others.
Antihypertensives, medications used to treat high blood pressure.
Medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease.
Tell your doctor about all medications and herbal products you are taking.
Side effects
Dermodrin cream may cause the following side effects: redness, itching, skin inflammation, blisters (bubble of fluid under the skin), allergy, anxiety, dry mouth and others.
This medicine rarely causes side effects.
However, you should call your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects.
References
Reilly JF, Weisse ME. Topically induced diphenhydramine toxicity. J Emerg Med. 1990: 8(1): 59-61.
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