Ichthyol ointment is a topical drug. The medication is part of the antiseptic group . Ichthyol ointment has a pronounced analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect. The drug has a dark brown color.
With external use, the penetration of the active substance into the systemic circulation is not observed.
The drug is a therapeutic measure for patients with neuralgia, eczema, joint pain, and is also indicated for burns. In addition, the medication is effective for frostbite, furunculosis, suppuration of wound sites. A drug in the form of suppositories is used to combat diseases of the male and female genital organs (inflammation of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, prostate gland, uterine mucosa and other things). Ichthyol suppositories are also effective in diseases of the rectum. In such cases, the drug is used after emptying and conducting hygiene procedures.
The mechanism of action of the drug is based on the properties of the active component (Ichthyol). The substance is able to affect the permeability in the vascular walls, primarily arterioles, capillaries and venules - having a very small caliber. By adjusting their tone, swelling decreases, pain disappears and the severity of inflammation as a whole decreases. Ichthyol helps to improve tissue blood supply, optimize the transport of oxygen and other nutrient components, and quickly remove decomposition products from pathologically altered structures. The analgesic effect of the active substance is caused not only by a decrease in the exudative process (plasma "sweating" through the vessel wall) and resorption of puffiness, but also by a direct effect on painful skin receptors. In this case, their initial excitation goes into a state of increased sensitivity threshold.
Ichthyol ointment. Instructions for use
The medication is applied only with a thin layer without rubbing. After that, the treated affected area is covered with a gauze bandage.
When using the drug, contact with eyes or mucous membranes should be avoided. After applying the medication, hands should be washed thoroughly.
The duration of the therapeutic course and dosage of the drug is determined exclusively by the attending physician for each patient, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body.
As a rule, ichthyol ointment is favorably tolerated by patients. However, in rare cases, allergic reactions are possible, including urticaria, pruritus, and skin rash. The manifestation of these side effects is usually characteristic of the initial stage of a therapeutic course or with prolonged use of the drug.
In case of severe negative reactions, the use of the medication should be stopped immediately.
Ichthyol ointment is contraindicated with increased individual sensitivity to the components of the drug. This medication is not recommended for children under the age of twelve.
The advisability of prescribing and using the medication Ichthyol ointment during pregnancy should be determined by the attending physician.
During the lactation period, when applying the ointment, one should beware of getting the drug on the nipples in order to avoid swallowing a certain amount of it by the child.
The treatment of the same affected skin area with ichthyol and any other external agent is not recommended. It should be noted that the complex use of the drug with local preparations containing alkaloids, salts of heavy metals and iodine can form new compounds with an unpredictable effect.