Some medicines include the warning “For external use only.”
This means the product is intended to be used on the outside of the body, usually on the skin or another specifically labeled external area.
It should not be swallowed or used in a way that is not described in the product directions.
What Types of Medicines May Have This Warning?
The warning commonly appears on topical products such as:
- Creams
- Ointments
- Gels
- Lotions
- Certain medicated solutions
Examples include some topical hydrocortisone, lidocaine, benzoyl peroxide, and antibiotic products.
Does “External Use” Always Mean Any Part of the Skin?
No.
A medicine may be intended only for certain areas of the body.
Some topical products should not be used:
- In or near the eyes
- Inside the mouth
- Inside the nose
- On large areas of damaged skin
- On other areas not listed in the directions
The restrictions depend on the specific product.
What If the Medicine Gets in Your Eyes?
Follow the instructions for the specific product.
For many topical medicines, eye contact should be avoided.
If accidental exposure occurs, rinse as directed by the product information and seek medical advice if irritation or other symptoms continue.
Should You Swallow a Topical Medicine?
No.
Products labeled for external use are not intended to be swallowed.
DailyMed labeling for several OTC topical products specifically advises getting medical help or contacting Poison Control if the product is swallowed.
In the United States, Poison Control can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.
Can You Cover the Area With a Bandage?
Not automatically.
Some topical medicines may absorb differently when covered with a tight or occlusive dressing.
MedlinePlus instructions for certain topical medicines advise against applying dressings or bandages unless a healthcare professional has recommended it.
Can You Apply More to Make It Work Faster?
Usually, more is not better.
Using a larger amount or applying a topical medicine more often than directed can increase irritation or other side effects.
Follow the amount and frequency listed on the label or prescription directions.
What If the Skin Is Broken or Irritated?
The answer depends on the product.
Some topical medicines should not be applied to raw, blistered, or severely damaged skin unless specifically directed.
For example, some lidocaine OTC labels warn against using large amounts over raw or blistered areas.
When to Stop and Ask for Help
Check the product label for specific instructions.
You should consider contacting a pharmacist or other healthcare professional if:
- The condition becomes worse
- Significant irritation develops
- Symptoms persist longer than the label recommends
- The medicine is accidentally swallowed
- You are unsure where the medicine can safely be applied
- You are unsure whether it can be used with another topical product
Bottom Line
“For external use only” means the medicine is intended to be applied only to the external area described in its directions.
Do not swallow the product, avoid areas specifically listed in the warnings, and follow the dosing and application instructions for that particular medicine.
Sources
- MedlinePlus — Benzoyl Peroxide Topical Drug Information.
- MedlinePlus — Mupirocin Topical Drug Information.
- DailyMed — Hydrocortisone 1% Cream Drug Facts.
- DailyMed — Lidocaine 4% Cream Drug Facts.