Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid is a orthohydroxybenzoic acid. Salicylic Acid is obtained from the bark of the white willow and wintergreen leaves, and also prepared synthetically. It has bacteriostatic, fungicidal and keratolytic actions. It was chemically synthesied in 1860 and has been extensively used in dermatologic therapy as a keratolytic agent. It releives pain and reduces swelling. Salicylic Acid is effective to treat warts, skin ulcer, psoriasis and other skin conditions.


Adult Dose
Dose: 0.5 to 16 %
Single Dose: 8.2 (8.25)
Frequency: 12 hourly
Route: Topical
Instructions: As Required
Neonatal
Dose: 0.5 to 6 %
Single Dose: 3.2 (3.25)
Frequency: 12 hourly
Route: Topical
Instructions: As Required
Paedriatic
Dose: 0.5 to 6 %
Single Dose: 3.2 (3.25)
Frequency: 12 hourly
Route: Topical
Instructions: As Required
Characteristics
. It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Benzoic Acid. It belongs to Cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents and Keratolytic Agent pharmacological group.The Molecular Weight of Salicylic Acid is 138.10. Its pKa is 3.0, 13.4.
Contraindications
Salicylic Acid is contraindicated in conditions like Pregnancy,Lactation,Hypersensitivity to the drug.
Effects
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Salicylic Acid, which give rise to further complications include Urticaria, Anaphylactoid reactions, Erythema multiforme, Coma, Respiratory depression, Acidosis, Stupor, Excitement, Metabolic disturbances.Salicylic Acid produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Salicylate intoxication. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Salicylic Acid therapy.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Salicylic Acid are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Inflammation, Thirst, Fatigue, Nausea, Fever, Tinnitus, Confusion, Irritation, SweatingX, Salicylism.
Indications
Salicylic Acid is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne vulgaris, Corns, Eczema, Ichthyosis, Psoriasis, Scaly skin conditions, Warts.
Interactions
Salicylic Acid is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementCarbamazepineChlorpropamideDiclofenac (Na)Dimemorfan PhosphateDipyridamoleGlipizideHeparin (Na) and Heparin (Cl)MethotrexateResorcinolConcurrent use with resorcinol may cause a cumulative irritant or drying effect, especially with the application of peeling, desquamating, or abrasive agents, resulting in excessive irritation of the skinTretinoin These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Interfrence
Risks
Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.
Storage
Soln, Lotion, Gel, Powder Store in a well closed container, Below 40°C. Do not Freeze. Protect from Sunlight.
Warnings
Salicylic acid should be used with caution in patients with chronic renal (kidney) insufficiency, gastric ulcer, severe anemia, patients intolerant to salicylate or diabetes. Avoid prolonged and excessive use on large area of body or on broken or inflammed skin. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth or other mucous membrane. It should also be used with caution on extremities of patients with impaired peripheral circulation.
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