Semi-solid, greasy substances used as EMOLLIENTS, protectants and as vehicles for topical drug delivery, ointments may be hydrophilic or hydrophobic. The former dissolve in water and usually contain polyethylene glycols. Hydrophobic ointments do not combine with water and are para?n-based. Mixing hard and soft para?ns allows sti?ness and greasiness to be modi?ed. Pastes are ointments containing a high proportion of inert powder such as starch or zinc oxide which confers sti?ness. Pastes are protective and allow precise aplication of drugs to the skin.... ointments
A crystalline substance sparingly soluble in water that is used externally in ointments and pastes. It has antifungal properties and helps to loosen and remove scales. In high concentrations it is useful in treatment of verrucae (WARTS) and corns (see CORNS AND BUNIONS).... salicylic acid
n. a silvery metallic element that is liquid at room temperature. Its toxicity caused a decline in the use of its compounds in medicine during the 20th century; mercurial compounds were formerly used in the treatment of syphilis and as purgatives, teething pastes and powders, fungicides, and antiparasitic agents. Mercury is still widely used in dentistry as a component of *amalgam fillings; when the mercury is combined with the filling alloy, it is nontoxic. Symbol: Hg. See also mercurialism; pink disease.... mercury
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