Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Dermol 500 Lotion

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Benzalkonium chloride, Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Isopropyl myristate, Liquid paraffin may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Benzalkonium chloride, Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Isopropyl myristate, Liquid paraffin

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

FOR

  • Dermol 500 Lotion is an antimicrobial and emollient (softening and moisturising) treatment for application to dry or problem skin.
  • It is for use in two ways:
  • as a leave-on application
  • as a soap-substitute
  • It helps treat and prevent dry and itchy (pruritic) skin conditions, especially eczema and dermatitis.
  • All age groups can use Dermol 500 Lotion, including babies.
  • There are two types of active ingredient in this product:
  • Benzalkonium chloride and chlorhexidine dihydrochloride are antimicrobials. These help to:
  • combat bacteria present on your skin that can make eczema worse
  • prevent infection caused by scratching itchy skin.
  • Liquid paraffin and isopropyl myristate are emollients which help to:
  • soften, moisturise and protect your skin by trapping moisture in the skin and restoring the normal protective function of the skin
  • prevent the skin-drying and irritant effects that can be caused by washing and bathing and by the soaps, foaming additives and fragrances used in ordinary skin cleansing products.
  • This product can be used in addition to any other emollients or treatments your doctor or pharmacist may have given or prescribed for you to treat your dry skin condition.

2. BEFORE YOU USE DERMOL 500 LOTION

Do not use Dermol 500 Lotion if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, liquid paraffin, isopropyl myristate, or any of the other ingredients of Dermol 500 Lotion listed in Section 6. Warnings and precautions As with any product, severe generalised allergic reactions (see Section 4) are possible. Very rare reports of such reactions in susceptible individuals, leading to a drop in blood pressure and even to unconsciousness, have been associated with products containing chlorhexidine. You must not use Dermol 500 Lotion if you have had problems with chlorhexidine-containing products in the past. Do not smoke or go near naked flames – risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings etc) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it. Take care when using this product:

  • For patients with very sensitive skin, it is generally a good idea to start any new treatment on a small test area first, in case any side effect occurs (see Section 4 below). This is especially important when treating the face or young children. Thereafter, treatments may be applied more generously, as required.
  • Avoid getting it in the eyes, especially when using it on the face.
  • When used as a soap substitute in the bath or shower the product can make the surface slippery, so be careful to avoid slipping over when getting into and out of your shower or bath (e.g. by using a shower or bath mat). Using other medicines This product is not known to affect, or to be affected by, other medicines. Pregnancy and breast-feeding This product can be used during pregnancy and whilst breast-feeding. However, when breast-feeding, if use on the nipples is necessary, apply sparingly and after feeds. Gently wipe away any remaining product before feeding your baby. The ingredients have been in widespread use in this and similar preparations for many years, without reports of problems. However, safety trials have not been conducted. Dermol 500 Lotion contains cetostearyl alcohol Cetostearyl alcohol may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis). If you have previously experienced local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis) to any of the ingredients, please talk to your doctor before using this product. Use it only on the skin. For maximum benefit you should use this product on a regular basis and as often as required. Before using the 500 ml bottle, turn the top of the pump dispenser anti-clockwise to unlock it. After unlocking, you will need to press down the pump dispenser several times to prime the pump before any product is dispensed. The same instructions apply for all age groups:For use as a leave-on application
  • Apply Dermol 500 Lotion to the affected areas. continued… Prints: PMS 336

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How to take it

DERMOL 500 LOTION

Flat size: 154mm x 350mm

• • • •

Gently smooth into the skin. If necessary, allow time for any excess to soak in. Do not rub the skin vigorously. Reapply as often as required. If you are applying another treatment to the same areas of skin as Dermol 500 Lotion, try to avoid mixing the two products. This can be achieved by applying the treatments alternately, leaving sufficient time to allow the previous application to soak in. For use as a soap substitute

  • Use Dermol 500 Lotion to wash with instead of your ordinary soap or shower gel. It will not foam or lather like ordinary cosmetic products.
  • After washing, bathing or showering, pat the skin dry with a soft towel (avoid rubbing as this can make dry skin conditions worse). If you forget to use Dermol 500 Lotion Do not worry if you occasionally forget to use it, just carry on using the product as described the next time you require it. If the product gets into the eyes The product may cause irritation if it gets into the eyes. Rinse the eyes with plenty of water. If rinsing one eye, take care to avoid washing product into the other eye. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.

4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS Like all medicines, Dermol 500 Lotion can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If you experience any of the following reactions stop using Dermol 500 Lotion and get urgent medical help: swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat; a sudden uncharacteristic red itchy skin rash (hives) away from the site of application; wheezing or breathing difficulty; feeling faint or dizzy; a strange metallic taste in the mouth; or collapse. You may be having a serious allergic reaction. This product has been specially designed for use on dry or problem skin areas anywhere on the body. Rarely, Dermol 500 Lotion can cause skin reactions on treated areas (involving redness, irritation and/or itching). These very rare skin reactions may become more significant where associated with excessive use as a leave-on application in areas of folded skin such as the groin or in the nappy area. Stop using this lotion and tell your doctor or pharmacist:

  • If your skin condition seems to look or feel worse.
  • If any of the side effects become unacceptable, or you notice any other side effects not mentioned in this leaflet. If you swallow Dermol 500 Lotion If you accidentally swallow the product and you then feel unwell, seek medical attention. Do not attempt to cause vomiting. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible

Possible side effects

not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

DERMOL 500 LOTION

  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.
  • Do not use Dermol 500 Lotion after the expiry date shown on the container and carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
  • Do not store above 25°C.
  • After using the 500 ml bottle it is advisable to turn the top of the pump dispenser clockwise to lock it.

6. FURTHER INFORMATION

What Dermol 500 Lotion contains: The active ingredients in this product are benzalkonium chloride (0.1% w/w), chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (0.1% w/w), liquid paraffin (2.5% w/w) and isopropyl myristate (2.5% w/w). The other ingredients are cetostearyl alcohol, macrogol cetostearyl ether (cetomacrogol 1000), phenoxyethanol and purified water. What Dermol 500 Lotion looks like and contents of the pack

  • The product is a white, non-greasy lotion that contains no dye or fragrance.
  • This bottle contains 500 ml of lotion. The bottle is fitted with a pump dispenser. (50 ml packs are also available to the medical and allied professions.) The Marketing Authorisation holder is Dermal Laboratories, Hitchin, Herts, SG4 7QR, UK. The Manufacturer is Aeropak, Viking Road, Great Yarmouth, NR31 0NU, UK. This leaflet was last revised in January 2024.

7. GENERAL ADVICE ON LOOKING AFTER DRY SKIN CONDITIONS

  • Emollients help soften, moisturise and protect the skin. They play a central role in the treatment and management of dry skin conditions. For maximum effect, they should be applied regularly and as often as needed.
  • When bathing, try to use warm, not hot, water and avoid staying in the bath for long periods. This could make dry skin conditions worse.
  • Try to avoid using normal soaps or shower products (even those labelled "moisturising"). This is because they tend to dry and irritate the skin. Avoid using products containing fragrances, as these can also cause skin problems. You should try to use a fragrance-free emollient "soap substitute" instead. This type of product will not foam or lather but will be better for your dry skin condition.
  •  Breaking the itch-scratch cycle. Some dry skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis are itchy, and can be quite sore. Although scratching relieves the itching for a short while, it further damages the skin. Badly scratched skin easily gets infected. This makes it itchier and the urge to scratch becomes even greater. It is better if scratching can be avoided by reducing the itching. The regular use of emollients or moisturisers can help with this.

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To listen to or request a copy of this leaflet in Braille, large print or audio, please call free of charge: 0800 198 5000 (UK only). Please be ready to give the following information: Dermol 500 Lotion, 00173/0051. This is a service provided by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Prints: PMS 336

Flat size: 154mm x 350mm

Frequently asked questions about Dermol 500 Lotion

What is the active substance in Dermol 500 Lotion?

The active substance in Dermol 500 Lotion is benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin.

Are there equivalent medicines to Dermol 500 Lotion?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Dermol 200 Shower Emollient, Dermol Wash Cutaneous Emulsion. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Dermol 500 Lotion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Dermol 500 Lotion without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

  • Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc), Datapharm
  • Active substance: benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin
  • Official document: view the original leaflet on emc →
Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Benzalkonium chloride (10 medicines), Benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, isopropyl myristate, liquid paraffin (4 medicines), Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (8 medicines), Liquid paraffin (14 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

An antimicrobial emollient for the management of dry and pruritic skin conditions, especially eczema and dermatitis. The lotion is suitable for direct application, and for use as a soap substitute.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

For adults, children and the elderly.

For application to the skin

Apply the lotion to the affected areas as required.

Massage into the skin, until absorbed.

For use as a soap substitute

Use as a cleanser in the bath or shower, or for other toiletry purposes, instead of ordinary soap or shower gel.

4.3. Contraindications

Do not use in cases of known sensitivity (especially generalised allergic reaction) to any of the ingredients (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Avoid contact with the eyes.

Take care to avoid slipping in the shower or bath, when using as a soap substitute.

Local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis) to any of the ingredients are rare but possible in sensitive people.

There are literature reports of chlorhexidine compounds inducing hypersensitivity, including anaphylactic shock. The prevalence of this is not known, but is likely to be very rare. Dermol 500 Lotion should not be administered to anyone with a possible history of allergic reaction to a chlorhexidine compound (see sections 4.3 and 4.8).

Dermol 500 Lotion contains cetostearyl alcohol which may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis).

Instruct patients not to smoke or go near naked flames - risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings etc) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

None known.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Use during pregnancy and lactation is not expected to be associated with harmful effects to the mother as cutaneous absorption of benzalkonium chloride is minimal. When breast-feeding, if use on the nipples is necessary, apply sparingly and after feeds. Gently wipe away any remaining product before feeding your baby.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

None known.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Although the lotion has been specially formulated for use on dry or problem skin, in the unlikely event of a reaction discontinue treatment.

Local skin reactions

These reactions are very rare (<1/10,000, based on spontaneous reporting) and may be irritant or allergic in nature. Reactions have been observed occasionally when used excessively as a leave-on application in areas of folded skin such as the anogenital area.

Serious generalised allergic reactions

Very rarely, hypersensitivity including anaphylactic reaction (see sections 4.3 and 4.4) is possible (based on literature for chlorhexidine-containing products).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store

4.9. Overdose

Not applicable.

💬 Ask about this leaflet

Ask anything about Dermol 500 Lotion. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

Medicines containing Benzalkonium chloride, Chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, Isopropyl myristate, Liquid paraffin

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