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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Other
Meradimate is an organic UV filter belonging to the anthranilate class, primarily used in sunscreen formulations to provide UVA and UVB protection. It is a GRASE (Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective) ingredient regulated by the FDA for topical use.
Name
Meradimate
Raw Name
MERADIMATE
Category
Other
Drug Count
7
Variant Count
8
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Meradimate
Meradimate is an organic UV filter belonging to the anthranilate class, primarily used in sunscreen formulations to provide UVA and UVB protection. It is a GRASE (Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective) ingredient regulated by the FDA for topical use.
Detailed information about Meradimate
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Meradimate.
Meradimate, chemically known as menthyl anthranilate, is an organic compound used primarily as an active ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen products. It belongs to a pharmacological class known as ortho-aminobenzoates (or anthranilates). Within the landscape of photoprotection, Meradimate serves as a chemical UV filter, designed to absorb ultraviolet radiation and convert it into negligible amounts of heat, thereby preventing the radiation from damaging the underlying skin cells.
Historically, Meradimate was one of the first chemical filters to provide protection in the UVA range, specifically the UVA II spectrum (320 to 340 nanometers). While it is less commonly used as a primary filter today compared to modern alternatives like avobenzone or ecamsule, it remains a vital component in many broad-spectrum formulations due to its stability and compatibility with other ingredients. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified Meradimate as a Category I ingredient under the Sunscreen Monograph, meaning it is 'Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective' (GRASE) for topical application when used in concentrations up to 5%.
At the molecular level, Meradimate functions through the process of electronic excitation. When UV photons strike the Meradimate molecule, the electrons within the anthranilate structure absorb the energy and jump to a higher energy state (excited state). As these electrons return to their ground state, they release the energy as heat, which is then dissipated across the surface of the skin. This mechanism is distinct from physical blockers like zinc oxide, which primarily reflect and scatter light.
Meradimate’s absorption peak is approximately 336 nanometers. This makes it particularly effective against UVA II rays, which contribute to premature skin aging (photoaging) and can play a role in the development of skin cancers. However, because its absorption falls off rapidly beyond 350 nm, it is rarely used alone and is almost always paired with other filters to ensure 'broad-spectrum' coverage across the entire UVA and UVB range.
Meradimate is FDA-approved for the following indications:
Meradimate is never administered orally or via injection. It is available in various topical formulations, usually at a concentration of 3.5% to 5%, including:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider or a board-certified dermatologist can determine if products containing Meradimate are appropriate for your specific skin type and medical history.
For adults and adolescents, Meradimate-containing sunscreens should be applied liberally to all exposed skin areas. Clinical guidelines suggest the 'two-finger rule'—applying two strips of sunscreen to the index and middle fingers for each major body area (face/neck, each arm, each leg, chest, and back).
Because Meradimate is applied topically and has negligible systemic absorption, no dosage adjustments are typically required for patients with kidney disease. However, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) should monitor for skin sensitivity, as their skin may be more prone to irritation.
No dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with liver impairment due to the lack of systemic exposure.
Elderly patients often have thinner skin (atrophic skin). While no specific dose reduction is needed, these patients should be monitored for increased susceptibility to contact dermatitis or irritation.
Meradimate is for external use only.
In the context of sun protection, a 'missed dose' refers to forgetting to apply or reapply the product. If you forget to apply Meradimate before going outdoors, apply it as soon as you remember. However, be aware that the skin may have already sustained UV damage. If you are already sunburned, further application of Meradimate will not treat the burn but may prevent further damage.
Topical overdose of Meradimate is virtually impossible under normal conditions. However, accidental ingestion can occur, particularly in children.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's or the product label's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your use without medical guidance.
Meradimate is generally well-tolerated, and most users do not experience significant side effects. However, the most common issues are localized to the site of application:
> Warning: Stop using Meradimate and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious reactions.
There is currently no clinical evidence suggesting that long-term topical use of Meradimate leads to systemic toxicity, hormonal disruption, or organ damage. Unlike some other chemical filters (such as oxybenzone), Meradimate has not been strongly linked to significant endocrine disruption in human studies. The primary 'long-term' effect is the beneficial reduction in cumulative UV damage and a lower incidence of skin cancers.
There are no FDA Black Box Warnings for Meradimate. It is considered safe for the general population when used as directed on the OTC label.
Report any unusual symptoms or persistent skin changes to your healthcare provider. If you suspect a chronic allergy to sunscreens, a dermatologist can perform 'patch testing' or 'photopatch testing' to identify the specific ingredient causing the reaction.
Meradimate is intended for topical use only. It must not be ingested, inhaled (in the case of spray formulations), or applied to internal surfaces. While it is an effective UV filter, it does not provide 100% protection against all UV radiation. Users should still employ other sun-safety measures, such as seeking shade during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM) and wearing protective clothing.
No FDA black box warnings for Meradimate. It has a long history of safe use in the United States and internationally.
For the vast majority of users, no laboratory monitoring (such as blood counts or liver function tests) is required. However, individuals using Meradimate-containing products daily over large portions of their body may want to have their Vitamin D levels checked periodically. Because sunscreens block UVB rays—which are necessary for the skin to synthesize Vitamin D—long-term, rigorous use can theoretically lead to Vitamin D deficiency. Your doctor may recommend a supplement if levels are low.
Meradimate has no known effect on the central nervous system and does not impair the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.
There are no known interactions between topical Meradimate and the consumption of alcohol. However, alcohol consumption can sometimes lead to 'flushing' or increased skin sensitivity in some individuals, which might be confused with a reaction to the sunscreen.
Meradimate can be discontinued at any time without the risk of withdrawal symptoms or 'rebound' effects. However, upon discontinuation, the skin will immediately lose its protection against UV radiation, increasing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially pre-existing skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, with your healthcare provider before starting a new Meradimate-based regimen.
There are no known systemic drug-drug interactions that are strictly contraindicated with the topical use of Meradimate. This is due to its extremely low systemic bioavailability.
There are no known interactions between Meradimate and food, including grapefruit, dairy, or caffeine. Because the drug is not absorbed systemically in significant amounts, diet does not affect its efficacy or safety profile.
Meradimate is not known to interfere with standard blood or urine laboratory tests. It does not cause false positives on drug screenings or affect the results of metabolic panels.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, even if they are only applied to the skin.
Meradimate must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis by a healthcare provider:
There is a theoretical risk of cross-sensitivity for individuals allergic to other esters of aminobenzoic acid. While Meradimate is an anthranilate (ortho-aminobenzoate) and not a PABA derivative (para-aminobenzoate), some extremely sensitive individuals may react to both classes. If you have a known 'sunscreen allergy,' comprehensive patch testing is the only way to safely identify which filters you can use.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history and skin type before prescribing or recommending Meradimate.
FDA Pregnancy Category: Not formally assigned (Topical OTC).
Meradimate is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. Because systemic absorption is negligible, the risk to the developing fetus is considered extremely low. Maintaining sun protection during pregnancy is particularly important because hormonal changes can lead to 'melasma' (the mask of pregnancy), a condition where the skin develops dark patches that are worsened by UV exposure. Clinical consensus suggests that the benefits of preventing skin damage and melasma outweigh the theoretical risks of topical Meradimate use.
It is unknown if Meradimate is excreted in human milk. However, given its low systemic absorption through the skin, it is highly unlikely that significant amounts would reach the breast milk. Nursing mothers should avoid applying Meradimate-containing products directly to the nipple or areola area to prevent the infant from accidentally ingesting the product during feeding.
As noted, Meradimate is approved for children over 6 months of age. It is essential for preventing early-life sunburns, which are a major risk factor for developing melanoma later in life. Parents should choose 'tear-free' formulations for children to avoid eye irritation. For children with sensitive skin, 'fragrance-free' and 'hypoallergenic' labels are preferred.
Older adults often have thinner, more fragile skin and may be taking multiple systemic medications that increase photosensitivity. Meradimate is effective for this population, but caregivers should monitor for signs of skin breakdown or irritation. There is no evidence that reduced renal or hepatic function in the elderly necessitates a change in how Meradimate is applied.
No dose adjustment is required. Meradimate does not accumulate in the blood of patients with kidney disease when applied topically to intact skin.
No dose adjustment is required. The liver's ability to process the tiny amounts of absorbed Meradimate remains sufficient even in the presence of mild to moderate hepatic disease.
> Important: Special populations, particularly pregnant women and those with chronic skin conditions, require individualized medical assessment by a healthcare provider.
Meradimate (Menthyl anthranilate) is an organic UV filter that operates via the absorption of ultraviolet radiation. Its chemical structure, an ester of anthranilic acid, contains a conjugated system of double bonds and an amine group. This configuration allows the molecule to absorb photons in the UVA II range (320–340 nm). When a photon is absorbed, an electron is promoted from the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) to the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO). This energy is then dissipated as low-level heat as the molecule returns to its ground state, preventing the UV energy from reaching the DNA of keratinocytes and melanocytes.
The effect of Meradimate is strictly local and dose-dependent based on the thickness of the applied layer. The 'Sun Protection Factor' (SPF) of a product containing Meradimate is a measure of its UVB protection, but because Meradimate is primarily a UVA absorber, it contributes more to the 'UVA Protection Factor' or the 'Critical Wavelength' of the formulation. It does not induce any systemic pharmacological effects, such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or glucose metabolism.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | < 1% (Topical) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Minimal systemic presence) |
| Half-life | Not established in humans |
| Tmax | N/A (Local action) |
| Metabolism | Dermal/Hepatic Esterases |
| Excretion | Renal (as metabolites) |
Meradimate is classified as an ortho-aminobenzoate UV filter. It is related to other chemical filters like octinoxate (cinnamates) and avobenzone (dibenzoylmethanes), but it is unique in its specific anthranilate backbone. It is often used as a 'booster' or stabilizer in complex sunscreen formulations.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Meradimate
Meradimate is primarily used as an active ingredient in sunscreens to protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It specifically targets the UVA II spectrum, which is responsible for premature skin aging and contributes to the risk of skin cancer. By absorbing these rays before they penetrate the skin, Meradimate helps prevent sunburn and long-term DNA damage. It is almost always found in combination with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection. Healthcare providers recommend its use as part of a daily sun-safety routine.
The most common side effects of Meradimate are localized skin reactions, such as mild redness, itching, or a stinging sensation at the site of application. These symptoms are usually temporary and may be caused by the sunscreen vehicle rather than the Meradimate itself. If the product gets into the eyes, it can cause significant stinging and watering. Most people use Meradimate-containing products without any adverse effects. If you develop a persistent rash, you should stop using the product and consult a dermatologist.
Yes, there are no known interactions between the topical use of Meradimate and the consumption of alcohol. Because Meradimate is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, alcohol does not change how the drug works or increase the risk of side effects. However, alcohol can cause skin flushing in some people, which might make the skin appear more irritated if a reaction is already occurring. As always, moderate alcohol consumption is advised for general health, but it does not interfere with your sunscreen's effectiveness.
Meradimate is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. Clinical data suggests that topical application of sunscreens results in negligible systemic absorption, meaning the active ingredients do not reach the developing fetus in any meaningful amount. Dermatologists often encourage the use of sunscreens like Meradimate during pregnancy to help prevent melasma, a common skin pigmentation issue triggered by hormones and UV light. If you have concerns, you can opt for physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide, but Meradimate remains a GRASE-listed option. Always discuss new skincare routines with your obstetrician.
Meradimate begins absorbing UV radiation as soon as it is applied to the skin. However, it takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes for the sunscreen formulation to 'set' and form a uniform, protective film over the skin's surface. For this reason, healthcare providers recommend applying the product at least 15 minutes before heading outdoors. If you apply it and immediately go into the water or start sweating, the product may wash off before it has a chance to provide effective protection. Consistent reapplication every two hours is necessary to maintain its efficacy.
Yes, you can stop using Meradimate-containing products at any time without any medical tapering or fear of withdrawal. Unlike systemic medications, there is no physiological dependence on topical UV filters. However, the moment you stop applying the product, your skin will lose its chemical defense against UV radiation. This increases your immediate risk of sunburn and your long-term risk of skin cancer and photoaging if you continue to spend time in the sun. If you stop using Meradimate due to an allergy, you should switch to a physical blocker immediately.
In the context of sunscreens, a missed dose means you forgot to apply the product before sun exposure or forgot to reapply it after two hours. You should apply the Meradimate-containing product as soon as you realize the omission. If you have already been in the sun for an extended period, seek shade immediately, as the damage may already have begun. A missed dose cannot be 'made up' by applying a thicker layer later; you must simply resume the standard application and reapplication schedule. Monitor your skin for signs of burning over the next 24 hours.
No, Meradimate does not cause weight gain. Weight gain is typically a systemic side effect associated with oral medications like steroids or certain antidepressants that affect metabolism or appetite. Because Meradimate is applied topically and has virtually no systemic absorption, it cannot influence your body's metabolic rate, fat storage, or hunger signals. There is no clinical evidence in any medical literature linking the use of UV filters to changes in body weight. You can use Meradimate-containing sunscreens daily without any concern for metabolic changes.
Meradimate can safely be used alongside most other medications. Because it is applied to the skin and stays primarily in the outer layers, it does not interact with oral drugs like blood pressure medicine, antibiotics, or birth control. It can also be used with other topical products, though you should apply medicated creams (like acne treatments) first and let them dry before applying sunscreen. If you are using a prescription-strength topical retinoid, your skin may be more sensitive, so you should ensure your Meradimate application is thorough and frequent.
Meradimate is the 'generic' or USP (United States Pharmacopeia) name for the active ingredient menthyl anthranilate. It is not a brand-name drug but a chemical component found in hundreds of different sunscreen brands, from store-brand generics to high-end luxury skincare. When looking for a product, check the 'Active Ingredients' section of the Drug Facts label to see if Meradimate is listed. Because it is an OTC ingredient, you do not need a prescription to purchase it, and it is widely available in various formulations and price points.