Zam-Buk Interthai Ointment

Zam-Buk Interthai Ointment is a medicated topical ointment from the long-standing Zam-Buk brand, supplied in an 18g pack. It is an aromatic herbal-oil ointment intended for external application on the skin, and it is not meant to be swallowed or used inside the eyes, nose or mouth.

The ointment combines camphor with aromatic plant oils, including eucalyptus oil and thyme oil, in an ointment base. These ingredients give the product its characteristic strong scent and the cooling, soothing sensation many people associate with Zam-Buk. The full ingredient list and amounts should be checked on the product packaging, as formulations can differ between markets and manufacturers.

Zam-Buk-style ointments are traditionally kept at home for minor everyday skin and muscle complaints, such as itchy insect bites and minor muscle aches. The compact 18g pack is convenient to keep in a bag, drawer or first aid kit. Because it contains camphor, it should be used sparingly, kept away from young children and used only as directed on the label.

Wash and gently dry the affected area of skin before use. Apply a small amount of ointment to the area and gently rub it in, using only a thin layer. Wash your hands after application, unless the hands are the area being treated.

Do not apply to the eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or on other mucous membranes, and do not apply to deep, large, infected or heavily bleeding wounds or to significant burns. Do not cover the treated area with a tight or airtight bandage unless directed. For external use only; do not swallow.

Apply a thin layer to the affected area up to 3 times daily, or as stated on the current product label. Do not use more often than directed, and avoid applying the ointment over large areas of skin.

If symptoms do not improve after a few days, or if they get worse, stop using the ointment and consult a doctor or pharmacist. Ask a doctor before using it on infants and young children, as camphor-containing products are not recommended for this age group unless specifically advised.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, and keep the lid tightly closed after each use. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

• Common: Temporary cooling, warming, tingling or mild stinging at the application site.
• Uncommon: Skin redness, itching or rash, especially on sensitive skin or with frequent use.
• Uncommon: Contact dermatitis in people sensitive to essential oils or other ointment ingredients.
• Serious: Allergic reactions such as widespread rash, blistering, swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing. Stop use and seek medical help immediately.
• Serious: Camphor poisoning if the ointment is swallowed, particularly by children, which can cause vomiting, drowsiness, confusion and seizures. Seek emergency medical care straight away.

• Do not use if you are allergic to camphor, eucalyptus oil, thyme oil or any other ingredient in the ointment.
• Do not apply to deep, large, infected or heavily bleeding wounds, or to significant or extensive burns.
• Do not use in or near the eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or on other mucous membranes.
• Do not apply to the face, nose or chest of infants and young children; do not use on infants and young children unless advised by a doctor.
• Not to be taken by mouth under any circumstances.

• No clinically significant interactions with oral medicines are well documented for topical use as directed.
• Avoid applying other camphor, menthol or essential-oil rubs or medicated creams to the same area at the same time, as this can increase irritation and the total amount of camphor applied.
• Do not apply heat packs or hot compresses over the treated area, as heat may increase absorption and skin irritation.
• If you are using a prescribed cream or ointment on the same area, ask a pharmacist before combining products.

• Test on a small patch of skin first if you have sensitive skin or are prone to skin allergies.
• A thin layer is enough; using more does not give better results and may irritate the skin.
• Clean minor scrapes with clean water before applying any product, and see a doctor if a wound shows signs of infection.
• Wash your hands after application so the ointment does not reach your eyes.
• Keep the tin or jar closed and stored out of children’s reach, as swallowing camphor products is dangerous.
• Stop use and seek advice if irritation develops or symptoms persist for more than a few days.

Precautions: For external use only. Avoid the eyes, mouth and mucous membranes, and do not apply to deep, large or infected wounds or significant burns. Keep out of reach of children, as swallowing camphor-containing products can cause serious poisoning. Do not use on infants or young children unless advised by a doctor. People with sensitive skin, a history of allergy to essential oils, or epilepsy should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Seek medical advice if a wound is deep, large or shows signs of infection such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling or pus, if a burn is larger than a small area or blisters extensively, if an insect bite causes spreading swelling or you feel unwell, or if symptoms do not improve after a few days. Stop using the ointment and seek urgent help if you develop signs of an allergic reaction, or if the ointment is swallowed.