Keralin Ointment

KERALIN OINTMENT by EAST INDIA PHARMACEUTICAL WORKS LIMITED

Keralin Ointment is a topical medication formulated to manage various hyperkeratotic skin conditions. It combines the anti-inflammatory properties of a corticosteroid with the keratolytic and antimicrobial actions of other active ingredients, providing comprehensive relief for affected skin.

Name

• Brand Name: KERALIN OINTMENT

Composition

Keralin Ointment contains a synergistic blend of three active ingredients:

• Hydrocortisone (0.5% w/w): A corticosteroid that helps to reduce inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching.
• Benzoic Acid (12% w/w): An antimicrobial and antiseptic agent that aids in preventing or treating infections caused by bacteria or fungi.
• Salicylic Acid (6% w/w): A keratolytic agent that works by breaking down keratin clumps, removing dead skin cells, softening the skin, and promoting healthy skin regeneration. It also enhances the absorption of hydrocortisone.

Uses

Keralin Ointment is primarily indicated for the treatment of hyperkeratotic skin lesions, including:

• Psoriasis
• Ringworm
• Chronic dry eczema
• Cracked heels
• Warts
• Corns
• Lichenification (thickened, rough skin from chronic irritation)

This ointment effectively reduces inflammation, alleviates itching, and provides antimicrobial benefits to prevent infections in these conditions. It is not recommended for certain conditions such as athlete's foot, chickenpox, cold sores, impetigo, thrush, infected lesions, ulcerative conditions, red appearance on the face, peri-oral dermatitis, or acne.

Dosage and Administration

For external use only.

• Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly before application.
• Apply a thin layer of Keralin Ointment to the affected skin as directed by your doctor.
• Typically, it is used 2-3 times a day, or as prescribed.
• The exact dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the patient's age, body weight, and the severity of the skin condition.
• Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• It may take several weeks to observe improvement, and regular use as advised by a physician is important for better efficacy.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Irritation at the application site (e.g., rash, redness, burning, itching, dryness). These are usually mild and self-limiting.

Serious or rare side effects:

• Allergic reactions, characterized by swelling of the lips, face, or neck, difficulty breathing, skin rash, or hives. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
• Prolonged use of corticosteroids like hydrocortisone can lead to thinning of the skin.
• Withdrawal effects, such as skin redness beyond the treated area, severe itching, burning/stinging, peeling, or oozing sores, may occur if the ointment is stopped after long-term use.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before using Keralin Ointment if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any existing liver or kidney conditions.
• Skin Sensitivity: Avoid using on irritated or broken skin.
• Application: Do not apply over large areas of skin without medical advice.
• Children and Elderly: Use with caution in children above 2 years of age and elderly patients, under medical guidance.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about any other medicines being taken, including over-the-counter products.
• Monitoring: Regularly consult your doctor to monitor for potential side effects and assess treatment progress.
• Moisturizer Use: Regular use of a moisturizer is recommended to counteract potential skin dryness during treatment.

Storage

• Store in a cool, dark, and dry place, preferably below 25°C.
• Protect from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.

What is Keralin Ointment used for?

Keralin Ointment is a combination medicine primarily used to treat psoriasis. It is also effective in managing other hyperkeratotic skin lesions, which are conditions characterized by thickened skin. These include chronic dry eczema, ringworm, cracked heels, warts, corns, and lichenification. The ointment helps to alleviate associated symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling, and irritation.

How does Keralin Ointment work?

Keralin Ointment contains three active ingredients: Benzoic Acid, Hydrocortisone, and Salicylic Acid.

• Benzoic Acid acts as an antiseptic, helping to prevent or treat bacterial and fungal infections.
• Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers (prostaglandins) in the skin.
• Salicylic Acid is a keratolytic agent. It helps to break down keratin clumps, remove dead skin cells, and soften the skin. It also enhances the absorption of hydrocortisone into the skin.

What is the usual dosage and how should it be applied?

Keralin Ointment is for external use only. Clean and dry the affected area of the skin thoroughly before application. Take a small amount of the ointment on clean hands and gently massage a thin layer onto the affected areas. It is generally recommended to use Keralin Ointment at least 2-3 times a day or as prescribed by your doctor. The exact dose and duration of treatment will depend on your age, body weight, and the specific skin condition.

What are the possible side effects of Keralin Ointment?

Common side effects at the application site may include irritation such as rash, redness, burning, or itching. In rare cases, more severe side effects like an allergic reaction (swelling of the lips, face, or neck leading to difficulty breathing, skin rash, or hives) may occur, requiring immediate medical attention. Prolonged use of corticosteroids like hydrocortisone in the ointment can also lead to thinning of the skin. If irritation persists or worsens, consult your doctor.

Is Keralin Ointment safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Keralin Ointment is generally not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women unless specifically directed by a doctor. It may be unsafe to use during pregnancy, and while some sources suggest it is probably safe during breastfeeding when prescribed by an expert, it is crucial to seek medical advice from your doctor.

Can Keralin Ointment be taken with other medications?

No specific drug interactions with other medications have been widely reported or established for Keralin Ointment. However, it is always important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are using, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to ensure there are no potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Keralin Ointment?

• Avoid contact with your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Keralin Ointment is not recommended for certain skin conditions such as viral infections (e.g., cold sores, chickenpox), bacterial or fungal skin infections like athlete's foot, impetigo, or thrush, ulcerative conditions, red appearance on the face, peri-oral dermatitis, or acne.
• Do not smoke or go near naked flames while using this medicine due to the risk of severe burns.
• Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor for better efficacy.
• Consult your doctor before using this ointment in children above 2 years of age and in elderly patients.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Keralin Ointment, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular application schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.