Ointment

 

Ointment

Definition: - Ointments are the soft semisolid preparations meant for external application to the skin or mucous membrane. They usually contain a medicament or medicaments dissolves, suspended or emulsified in the base. Ointments are used for their emollient and protective action to the skin.

Characteristics of ideal ointment :-

1.    It should be chemically and physically stable.

2.    It should be smooth and free from grittiness.

3.    It should melt or soften at body temperature.

4.    It should be easily applied.

5.    The base should be non-irritating and should have no-therapeutic action.

6.    The medicament should be finely divided and uniformly distrusted throughout the base.

Classification of ointment :-

1.    According to their therapeutic properties based on penetration _____

A.   Epidermis.

B.   Endodermic.

C.   Diathermic.

2.    According to their therapeutic uses ______

I.     Antiecze-matous ointments . ( Hydrocortisones , coal-tar  )

II.   Antibiotic ointments . ( bacitracin , chlortetracycline neomycin )

III.  More see  shat ….1 .