What is AL 12: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Sep 24, 2021

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AL 12 overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • AmLactin, Amlactin Distribution Pack, Geri-Hydrolac, Ultravate Pac, Halac Kit, Lac-Hydrin Twelve

Generic Names:

  • Ammonium Lactate

Uses:

  • Treats dry, scaly skin from xerosis or ichthyosis. Also temporarily relieves itching caused by these conditions.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antipruritic

Forms:

  • Cream, Foam, Lotion

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is AL 12 used for?

Lac-Hydrin is a prescription-only medication that is used to relieve itchy, dry skin associated with certain skin conditions, including xerosis and ichthyosis vulgaris. When applied onto the skin, Lac-Hydrin reduces the inflammation in order to relieve the itchy, dry skin symptoms.

What form(s) does AL 12 come in

  • Cream

  • Foam

  • Lotion

What are common AL 12 doses?

  • Bottle 225GM of 12%

How to take AL 12

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not put the medicine on your face or on areas that have cuts or scrapes, or where you have recently shaved. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. Shake the lotion well just before each use.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

What to do if you miss a dose of AL 12

AL 12 contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to ammonium lactate.

AL 12 warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

AL 12 interactions

  • Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

AL 12 side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Peeling, hives, or raised areas on treated skin

  • Stinging or burning of treated skin areas

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Changes in skin color

  • Mild skin itching or dryness

  • Stinging or burning of treated skin areas

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