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Pramoxine

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

Pramoxine is a topical anesthetic medication used to provide temporary relief from pain, itching, and discomfort associated with minor skin irritations, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. It works by temporarily numbing the skin and mucous membranes in the area where it is applied, offering localized comfort for patients seeking relief from uncomfortable symptoms.

Quick summary

Pramoxine is a topical anesthetic that temporarily relieves pain and itching by numbing the skin.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
C05AD07
RxNorm
34347
Generic
Pramoxine
Class
atc-c05
Brands
Vagisil Wipes, Callergy Clear, Tri Biozene, Tronolane Anesthetic, Procort 1.85/1.15, Eczemin, PrameGel Reformulated Apr 2012, New-Skin Poison Ivy, Dermal-Soothe, Cuadriderma, Analpram HC, Calaclear, Caladryl, Caladryl Clear, Calagesic
Availability
otc
Pregnancy
C
Lactation
caution
Half-life (h)
0
Onset (min)
5
Duration (h)
4
Routes
topical, otic, rectal
Forms
cream, gel, lotion, ointment, foam, spray, wipe, solution
Regions
United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Europe
Monitoring
local irritation, hypersensitivity reactions

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)topical cream/gel
Usual dose
apply thin layer to affected area
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
up to 3-4 times daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)topical cream/gel
Usual dose
apply thin layer to affected area
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
up to 3-4 times daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)topical cream/gel
Usual dose
apply thin layer to affected area
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
up to 3-4 times daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single dose that may cause serious toxicity
Chronic overdose: cumulative toxicity from repeated excessive topical application leading to systemic absorption
Immediate actions
gastric lavage if ingested within 1 hour, activated charcoal, supportive care, monitor cardiac and respiratory function
Antidote
no specific antidote exists - supportive care only(supportive care is mainstay of treatment)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

11 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use lowest effective amount

Key Recommendations

avoid use during first trimester unless clearly needed, consult healthcare provider

Monitor

monitor for any skin reactions

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pregnancy

second trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use lowest effective amount

Key Recommendations

use only if benefits outweigh risks, avoid large surface area application

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pregnancy

third trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use lowest effective amount

Key Recommendations

use only if benefits outweigh risks, avoid prolonged use

Monitor

monitor for any skin reactions

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

lactation

breastfeeding
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid application to breast area

Key Recommendations

do not apply to breast or nipple area while breastfeeding, wash hands thoroughly before handling infant

Monitor

monitor infant for any unusual reactions

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pediatric_age

children under 2
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use with extreme caution

Key Recommendations

consult pediatrician before use, avoid on large surface areas, do not use for prolonged periods

Monitor

close monitoring for skin irritation or systemic absorption

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

pediatric_age

children 2-12
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use as directed

Key Recommendations

follow pediatric dosing guidelines, do not apply to broken skin, avoid mucous membranes

Monitor

monitor for skin irritation

✓

geriatric

elderly
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

use as directed, may have thinner skin so monitor for irritation

Monitor

monitor for skin sensitivity or irritation

✓

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no specific dose adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

renal_impairment

severe
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no specific dose adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

hepatic_impairment

any
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no specific dose adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

alcohol_users

chronic alcohol use
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no known interaction with alcohol, use as directed

Monitor

standard monitoring

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

Commonly prescribed since

Value:1950s

General prescribing information

drug_classFDA
2023

Drug class

Value:Topical anesthetic

Drug classification information

usageMedical guidelines
2023

Common uses

Value:Temporary relief of pain and itching from minor skin irritations, burns, sunburns, insect bites

Common therapeutic uses

mechanismFDA
2023

Mechanism of action

Value:Blocks nerve signals in the skin providing localized numbness

Pharmacological mechanism

Used to relieve pain, itching, and burning associated with minor skin irritations, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, sunburn, insect bites, and poison ivy. Often found in combination products for hemorrhoid treatment.

Pramoxine is a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals (sodium channels) in the applied area, temporarily numbing the skin and reducing sensation of pain and itching.

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. Do not apply to broken or damaged skin unless directed by a physician. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 7 days. May cause local skin reactions in some individuals.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy