Bentoquatam is a topical medication intended to act as a shield against exposure to the irritating substance urushiol, found in plants such as poison ivy or poison oak. Bentoquatam contains bentonite, a clay, and is only effective as long as the film is visible on the skin.
Indication
Used to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic contact dermatitis due to urushiol, the allergenic resin of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.
Pharmacology
Bentoquatam protects the skin like a shield against poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac by physically blocking skin contact with their resin. The best protection against getting these conditions is to avoid contact with these plants. This medicine does not dry oozing and weeping caused by the rash of poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac.
Toxicity
Rare side effects include mild erythema (mild redness of skin).
Affected Organisms
Humans and other mammals
References
•
Scott MJ, Heumann MA, DeBruyckere DM, Brundage TW, Kohn MA: The feasibility of using skin protectant products and education to prevent poison oak. Wilderness Environ Med. 2002 Fall;13(3):206-8.
[Pubmed]
• Scott MJ, Heumann MA, DeBruyckere DM, Brundage TW, Kohn MA: The feasibility of using skin protectant products and education to prevent poison oak. Wilderness Environ Med. 2002 Fall;13(3):206-8. Pubmed
Irritant (Xi)