What is camphor ointment for? Instructions and purpose of the mentioned funds will be presented below. You will also learn about the contraindications of this medication, its principle of action and composition.
Manufactured form, drug packaging and its composition
Camphor ointment is intended for external use only. Its main component is camphor. Also, the composition of the drug includes such auxiliary elements as solid petroleum paraffin, petroleum jelly and anhydrous lanolin. Camphor ointment is on sale in orange glass jars, which are packaged in paper bundles. It can also be purchased in aluminum tubes.
Action of an external drug
How does camphor ointment work? According to the attached instructions, this drug has a natural origin and has a strong antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. After applying the medication to the skin, it excites sensitive nerve endings, thereby expanding blood vessels and improving trophic tissue.
Kinetic ability
Is camphor ointment absorbed? When the drug is applied to the surface of the skin, it is partially absorbed and oxidized. At the same time, its products interact with glucuronic acid, and then are excreted through the kidneys. Part of the active component of this agent in an unchanged form is excreted by the lungs and along with bile. The permeability of the drug through the placental barrier and through the BBB is high. The same goes for secretion with breast milk.
Indications for appointment
Under what conditions is a drug such as camphor ointment prescribed? The use of this external agent is indicated for:
- myositis;
- myalgia;
- arthralgia;
- sciatica.
In addition, the medication is prescribed to prevent the formation of pressure sores.
Bans to use
Are there any contraindications for the drug in question? Experts say that this drug is not recommended for use in the following situations:
- If the patient has a high sensitivity to camphor and other auxiliary ingredients.
- In violation of the integrity of the skin.
- During pregnancy and lactation.
- When a person has inflammatory skin diseases at the site of application of the ointment (including dermatitis and eczema).
- At a minor age (due to lack of clinical data).
Camphor ointment: instructions for use
How to use the medication in question? According to the instructions, camphor ointment is intended for external use only. A small amount of the drug should be applied with light rubbing movements to the affected area twice or thrice a day. If this drug was prescribed to prevent the formation of pressure sores, then it is used in a similar way with the same multiplicity. After using camphor ointment, wash your hands. The duration of external therapy is 8-10 days. According to the doctor’s recommendations, repeated courses of treatment can be performed.
Side effects
What negative reactions can cause the use of camphor ointment? Most patients claim that after using this medication they often develop allergic skin reactions (e.g. urticaria), as well as irritation of the integument, headaches, and dizziness.
Ointment overdose and drug interaction
What symptoms occur when using a large amount of camphor ointment? Until today, there have been no reports of cases of overdose with this drug. It should also be noted that no interaction of this drug with other drugs has been identified. But in any case, before you start using the medication, it is better to consult with your doctor.
Special recommendations
In the process of using camphor ointment, it should not be allowed to enter the wounds, as well as the mucous membranes and eyes. During treatment with this tool, care must be taken when driving a car and engaging in other dangerous types of work that require a high concentration of attention.
Terms and conditions of storage
Where should camphor ointment be kept? It is desirable to store this tool in a place protected from sunlight at a temperature of 12-15 degrees. The shelf life of this outdoor medication is four years. After the period indicated on the paper packaging, use of the drug is prohibited.
Reviews about the tool
What do consumers say about camphor ointment? Patients claim that this external agent has a pronounced local irritant and antiseptic effect. In addition, it anesthetizes well and stops the inflammatory process. Most often, this drug is used for myositis, sciatica and for the prevention of pressure sores.