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Crotan

crotamiton
Used for Itching, Scabies
Used for Itching, Scabies

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)).

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Ashley Wong, PharmD
Last reviewed on October 7, 2021
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesPricesMedicare
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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

Common BrandsCrotan, Eurax
Drug ClassAntiparasitic agent
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$2181.40(save 90.67%)
GoodRx discount
$203.45
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What are the 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

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

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
pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Crotan (crotamiton)

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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

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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

Pharmacist tips for Crotan (crotamiton)

pharmacist

  • 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.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Crotan (crotamiton)

              Is Crotan (crotamiton) safe to use while pregnant?
              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.
              Is it safe to use Crotan (crotamiton) on my child?
              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.
              Can I buy Crotan (crotamiton) over the counter?
              No, you'll need to get a prescription for Crotan (crotamiton) from your provider.
              Should I use Crotan (crotamiton) inside of my mouth?
              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.
              When can I shower after applying Crotan (crotamiton)?
              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.
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              What are the 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.

              risk-warning

              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.

              dosage

              Crotan (crotamiton) dosage forms

              The average cost for 1 bottle of 454g of 10% of Crotan (crotamiton) is $1448.91 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 33.58% off the average retail price of $2181.40.
              bottle of lotion
              Bottle of lotion
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              60g of 10%1 bottle$203.45$203.45
              237g of 10%2 bottles$1544.40$772.20
              454g of 10%1 bottle$1448.91$1448.91

              Typical dosing 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.

              drug-cost

              How much does Crotan (crotamiton) cost?

              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
              Crotan (brand)
              GoodRx lowest price

              $203.45

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              alternatives

              What are alternatives to Crotan (crotamiton)?

              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Crotan (crotamiton). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
              Crotan (crotamiton)
              Used for:

              • Scabies

              • Itchy skin

              $203.45 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Permethrin
              Used for:
              $29.11 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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