Triple Paste

Triple Paste is an over-the-counter (OTC) ointment commonly used for treating and preventing diaper rash. It contains zinc oxide, an ingredient that helps to protect the skin from irritants and may also serve as a mild astringent and a weak antiseptic. The product is meant to be applied liberally as often as necessary, usually after every diaper change.

What Is Triple Paste?

Triple Paste® Medicated Ointment is a nonprescription medication used to both treat and prevent diaper rash. It is a commercially available product based loosely on a compounded prescription product that has been made by pharmacists for decades.
 
(Click Triple Paste Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes This Medicine?

This product is made by Summers Laboratories, Inc.
 

How Does It Work?

The active ingredient in Triple Paste is zinc oxide, a common ingredient used in most diaper rash products. It helps to protect the skin from irritants and may also serve as a mild astringent (helping to dry oozing of minor irritation) and a weak antiseptic.
 
This product also contains various other ingredients that help to protect and soothe the skin.
 

When and How to Use Triple Paste

General considerations for when and how to use Triple Paste include the following:
 
  • This product should be applied liberally as often as necessary, both to treat and prevent diaper rash.
     
  • Liberally apply the ointment with your fingertips. Do not try to rub it in, as this action is not helpful and can be irritating.
     
  • You do not have to completely remove the previous application of Triple Paste when changing a diaper. Simply make sure the area is thoroughly (but gently) cleaned. Make sure to let the skin dry before applying the ointment.
     
  • Stop using Triple Paste and consult your child's healthcare provider if the rash does not improve within seven days, or if it goes away but returns quickly.

     
Dosing Information

This product is applied liberally as often as needed (see Triple Paste Dosage for more information).
 

Side Effects of Triple Paste

Triple Paste is unlikely to cause side effects when used properly. However, some individuals may develop skin irritation or allergic reactions when using this product.
 
(Click Triple Paste Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Potential Drug Interactions

This product is not known to interact with other medications (see Triple Paste Drug Interactions).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your child's healthcare provider prior to using Triple Paste if your child has:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines your child is taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Triple Paste Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not use this medicine.)
 

Overdose Information

An overdose with Triple Paste could potentially cause problems, especially if it is taken by mouth. If your child accidentally eats some of the ointment, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Triple Paste Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Methods

Triple Paste should be stored at room temperature. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Triple Paste?

If you miss a dose of Triple Paste, just skip it. Since the ointment is usually applied at every diaper change, and since frequent diaper changes are recommended for babies with diaper rashes, it will not be long before the next dose.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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