Nappy rash
Apply to the affected area(s) several times a day, as necessary.
Apply a thin layer to the skin as required.
Prescribing Notes:
- Urinary (nappy) rash may clear if skin is left exposed to air; if associated with yeast (candida) infection, an antifungal cream such as clotrimazole cream is useful.
- See Wound section of the formulary for further advice in relation to urinary incontinence barrier preparations.
History Notes
12/03/2025
Metanium nappy rash ointment discontinued
15/12/2021
East Region Formulary content agreed.
For dose, refer to BNF for Children.
For dose, refer to BNF for Children.
Prescribing Notes:
- Urinary (nappy) rash may clear if skin is left exposed to air; if associated with yeast (candida) infection, an antifungal cream such as clotrimazole cream is useful. See Fungal skin infections recommendations.
- See Wound care section of the formulary for further advice in relation to urinary incontinence barrier preparations.
History Notes
12/03/2025
Metanium nappy rash ointment discontinued
31/05/2024
East Region Formulary content agreed.
Dose according to age and product licence.
Dose according to age and product licence.
Consider hydrocortisone 1% cream in addition to the barrier preparation. Refer to Pharmacy First PGD for inflammatory skin conditions.
Refer to the PGD for information on dose, age, indication, duration and referral criteria.
Refer to the PGD for information on dose, age, indication, duration and referral criteria.
Prescribing Notes:
- Do not apply barrier creams too liberally as may prevent moisture absorption by the nappy.
- Urinary (nappy) rash may clear if skin is left exposed to air.
- If associated with yeast (candida) infection an antifungal such as clotrimazole is useful, should be applied two or three times daily and used for 7-10 days after rash has cleared.
- For nappy rash, advice should be given to parents/carers to ensure that nappies are changed frequently.
- See NICE CKS Nappy rash for further guidance.
When to advise patient to contact GP
If standard treatments fail or nappy rash persists.
If sign of infection or eczema.
History Notes
18/06/2026
Updated prescribing information, ERWG April 2026.
12/03/2025
Metanium nappy rash ointment discontinued.
27/10/2020
Content migrated from ‘East Region Formulary: Pharmacy First - supporting minor ailments’ document.