Urea, Topical

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: keratolytic; emollient

Generic and brand names: urea, topical; Carmol; Keralac; Urea 50% Cream; Vanamide

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is put on the skin to moisturize dry skin. High doses are used to dissolve and remove diseased skin and nails.

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to any medicine
• skin cancer

Females of childbearing age: Talk with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.

How do I use it?

Check the label on the medicine for directions about your specific dose. Follow your provider's instructions for using this medicine. Do not use more or use it more often than prescribed.

This medicine should only be used on the skin. Do not use swallow it. Keep this medicine away from your eyes. If you get the medicine in your eyes, flush with plenty of water.

Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. If using as a moisturizer, put urea on while your skin is still damp after washing or bathing.

If using to remove skin tissue, rub the medicine into the area you are treating, then cover with adhesive bandage or gauze.

If using this medicine to remove nails, put lots of the cream or lotion on the nail and cover it with gauze. Remove a finger from a plastic or vinyl glove and slip over the bandage-covered nail. Tape the glove finger in place to keep the nail dry for 3 to 7 days.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use double doses. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your healthcare provider.

What if I overdose?

Symptoms of an acute overdose have not been reported.

What should I watch out for?

While some mild to moderate irritation is normal with the use of this medicine, report any severe irritation to your healthcare provider right away.

If your condition does not improve in 4 weeks, or if it gets worse, contact your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Unusual bruising or bleeding, severe skin irritation (severe rash, burning, stinging, tingling, swelling or itching), severe pain, ulcers or blisters.

Other: Mild skin irritation.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported. However, do not use other medicines or cosmetic products on the affected skin unless your healthcare provider approves.

Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light. Keep it away from heat and open flames.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.