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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Ammonium Lactate Topical

(a moe' nee um lak' tate)

Brand Name(s): Lac-Hydrin¶; also available generically

WHY is this medicine prescribed?

Ammonium lactate is used to treat xerosis (dry or scaly skin) and ichthyosis vulgaris (an inherited dry skin condition) in adults and children. Ammonium lactate is in a class of medications called alpha-hydroxy acids. It works by increasing skin hydration.

Are there OTHER USES for this medicine?

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

HOW should this medicine be used?

Ammonium lactate comes as a cream and a lotion to apply to the skin. It is usually applied to the affected skin area twice daily. Apply ammonium lactate at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Apply ammonium lactate exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the lotion container well before each use to mix the medication evenly.

To use ammonium lactate topical, apply a small amount of cream or lotion to cover the affected area of skin and rub it in gently.

This medication is only for use on the skin. Keep ammonium lactate topical away from your eyes, mouth, and vaginal area, and do not swallow it.

If your skin condition becomes worse with treatment, contact your doctor.

What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?

Before using ammonium lactate,

  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ammonium lactate, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in ammonium lactate cream or lotion. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.

  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take while using ammonium lactate. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.

  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using ammonium lactate, call your doctor.

  • plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to natural or artificial sunlight to the affected skin area and to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Ammonium lactate can cause your affected skin area to be sensitive to sunlight.

What SPECIAL DIETARY instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What should I do IF I FORGET to take a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra cream or lotion to make up for a missed dose.

What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?

Ammonium lactate topical may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

  • stinging (especially on cracked or broken skin)
  • skin redness, burning, or itching
  • skin irritation (especially on the face)
  • skin peeling
  • rash
  • dry skin

Ammonium lactate may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.

What should I know about STORAGE and DISPOSAL of this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA's Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org

What should I do in case of OVERDOSE?

If someone swallows ammonium lactate, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms after you finish your cream or lotion, call your doctor.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

This branded product is no longer on the market. Generic alternatives may be available.

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