Crotan
Crotan (crotamiton) is used to treat scabies (an itchy skin condition caused by mites) and itching. It can be expensive since it's only available as a brand-name medication, and can't be used in children like other scabies medications (e.g., permethrin (Elimite)).
What is Crotan (crotamiton)?
What is Crotan (crotamiton) used for?
- Scabies
- Itchy skin
How Crotan (crotamiton) works
Crotan (crotamiton) is a topical (meaning it’s applied to your skin) antiparasitic agent. It works to kill mites that irritate your skin, but the way it does this isn't known. It also treats itchiness by blocking substances in your body called histamine and serotonin.
Drug facts
Side effects of Crotan (crotamiton)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- Itching
- Rash
- Allergic reaction
The following Crotan (crotamiton) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
Get your GoodRx coupon
Pros and cons of Crotan (crotamiton)
Pros
- Kills scabies and relieves itching caused by scabies
- Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
- Available in cream and lotion forms
- Doesn't have any significant interactions with other medications or supplements
Cons
- Might need to apply it multiple times
- Only available as a brand medication so it can be expensive
- Hasn't worked successfully for some people
- Not available over the counter
Pharmacist tips for Crotan (crotamiton)
- Take a bath or shower and dry yourself off before applying Crotan (crotamiton).
- Shake Crotan (crotamiton) well before using it.
- Cut your nails short, since mites can remain there. Make sure to apply Crotan (crotamiton) to the folds and creases in your skin, as well as in between your toes and under your fingernails.
- If you use a toothbrush to apply Crotan (crotamiton) under your fingernails, wrap it in paper and throw it away immediately. Brushing your teeth with the used toothbrush can lead to lead poisoning.
- Wash your clothing and bed linens in hot water the morning after applying Crotan (crotamiton). This will kill mites that might still be in your bedding or clothing and prevent them from going onto your skin again.
- Be sure to check other members of your household for scabies, and alert people you have been in close contact with, since scabies mites are very contagious.
Common questions about Crotan (crotamiton)
It isn't known if Crotan (crotamiton) is safe to use while pregnant because there haven’t been enough studies done in pregnant women. Discuss with your healthcare provider if the benefits of taking this medication outweigh the risks to you and your unborn baby.
Crotan (crotamiton) is not FDA-approved for use in children. It isn't known if Crotan (crotamiton) is safe or if it works in children. Talk to your child's provider about alternative medications, like permethrin (Elimite), which is considered the drug of choice for treating scabies and can be used in children 2 months and older.
No, you'll need to get a prescription for Crotan (crotamiton) from your provider.
No, Crotan (crotamiton) should only be applied to your skin from the chin down. Don’t put it inside of your mouth or touch your eyes because it can cause irritation. If you apply it inside of your mouth you might experience a burning sensation, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.
If you are using Crotan (crotamiton) to treat scabies, you should wait 48 hours after the last application of Crotan (crotamiton) before showering. If you come into contact with a lot of water after using it, the medication might come off and it might not work as well to kill the mites.
How to save using GoodRx
Risks and warnings for Crotan (crotamiton)
Crotan (crotamiton) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Mouth and eye irritation
Crotan (crotamiton) shouldn't be applied to the mouth, eyes, or any part of your skin that is broken, red or swollen because it can cause irritation.
Crotan (crotamiton) dosage
Bottle of lotion| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60g of 10% | 1 bottle | $438.25 | $438.25 |
| 454g of 10% | 1 bottle | $1,424.58 | $1,424.58 |
| 237g of 10% | 1 bottle | $791.83 | $791.83 |
Typical dosage for Crotan (crotamiton)
Your dose depends on what condition you’re using Crotan (crotamiton) for.
- Scabies: Massage Crotan (crotamiton) into your skin from the chin down to your toes, and under your fingernails. Leave it on and apply Crotan (crotamiton) again 24 hours later. Wash it off 48 hours after the second application.
- Itchy skin: Gently massage Crotan (crotamiton) into the affected areas of the skin until it is completely absorbed. You can repeat this as needed for itchiness.
How much does Crotan (crotamiton) cost?
$438.25
