Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Although this medicine provides some protection, avoiding contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac is best.

Do not use this medicine in or near the eyes. If this medicine does get into your eyes, wash them out immediately for 20 minutes with large amounts of cool tap water. If your eyes still burn or are painful, check with your doctor.

To use bentoquatam lotion:

  • Shake the lotion well before using.
  • Rub on enough lotion to leave a smooth wet film on skin.
  • Allow the medicine to dry on the skin at least 15 minutes before being exposed to poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac.
  • Maximum protection lasts for 4 hours but lotion must be reapplied whenever the dried film on the skin cannot be seen.
  • Remove medicine with soap and water when it is no longer needed.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For prevention of skin irritation from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac (allergic contact dermatitis):
    • For topical dosage form (lotion):
      • Adults and children six years of age and older—Apply to the area(s) of skin that may be affected at least fifteen minutes before exposure. Reapply whenever dry film is not seen or every four hours as needed.
      • Children up to six years of age—Use must be determined by the doctor.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

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Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024

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