Topical Therapies Flashcards
What is a gel?
Thickened aqueous solution, high molecular weight
What is a cream?
Semi-solid emulsion of oil and water, contains preservatives and emulsifiers. Easy to apply, non greasy and cosmetically acceptable.
What is an ointment?
Semi-solid emulsion of oil and water, greasy so less cosmetically acceptable. Doesn’t contain preservative and emulsifiers however. Better applied at night. There is a risk of contamination.
What is a lotion?
Liquid formulation for use on scalp and hair baring areas
What is a paste?
Semi-solid containing finely powered materials. Protective and occlusive
How much emollient should be prescribed per week for the whole body?
500-800mg
What is the mode of action for topical steroids?
Vasoconstrictive, anti-inflammatory proliferation
How much topical steroid is required to cover the whole body?
20-30mg
How should topical steroids be quantified?
1 finger tip=0.5mg=2 hand areas
What are some of the side effects of topical steroids?
thinning of skin, purpura and stretch marks, steroid rosacea, fixed telangastasia
Name an antiseptic that can be used in recurrent infections and wound irritation etc..
Potassium permanganate bath for 10mins
What topical antibiotic should be prescribed for Rosacea?
Metrodonizole
What topical antibiotic should be prescribed for Impetigo?
Fusidic acid
What topical antibiotic should be prescribed for Acne?
Tetracyclines, erthyromicin
When should anti-viral agents be given?
For eczema herpeticum, Herpes Zoster Virus, Herpes simplex
