Salicylic Acid (Salicylic Acid)
Overview of 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.
Indication of Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne vulgaris, Corns, Eczema, Ichthyosis, Psoriasis, Scaly skin conditions, Warts.
Contraindication of Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is contraindicated in conditions like Pregnancy,Lactation,Hypersensitivity to the drug.
Side Effects of Salicylic Acid
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.
Precautions of Salicylic Acid
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.