Topisal 6% Ointment

Composition of Topisal 6% Ointment

Topisal 6% Ointment contains Salicylic Acid 6% w/w. It belongs to the Keratolytic (Salicylic acid) class of medicines.

Uses of Topisal 6% Ointment

• Used for hyperkeratotic and scaly skin conditions such as psoriasis
• chronic eczema/dermatitis with scaling
• seborrhoeic dermatitis
• ichthyosis
• corns and calluses; helps remove thickened dead skin.

Key benefits

• Reduces scaling and flaking
• Softens thickened skin plaques
• Helps remove corns and calluses
• Improves penetration of other topical therapies
• Relieves roughness in hyperkeratotic conditions

How Topisal 6% Ointment works

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent. It softens and loosens the keratin in the outer skin layer, helping shed dead skin cells and reduce scaling and thickening.

How to take Topisal 6% Ointment

For external use only. Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily or as directed by a doctor. Avoid application on broken/irritated skin unless advised; wash hands after use. Do not cover with an occlusive dressing unless prescribed.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one — applying extra does not make up for it.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause severe irritation when far too much cream is applied; an oral retinoid taken in excess can cause headache, vomiting and liver injury. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Topisal 6% Ointment

Most side effects of Topisal 6% are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Burning
• stinging
• redness
• irritation
• peeling
• dryness
• itching

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Topisal 6% Ointment

Warnings and precautions

Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and mucous membranes. Do not use on large body areas, under occlusion, or for prolonged periods without medical advice due to risk of salicylate toxicity (especially in children). Use caution in children, in patients with kidney impairment, and on inflamed/broken skin. Stop and consult a doctor if severe irritation, rash, or signs of systemic toxicity occur (ringing in ears, dizziness, nausea). Not for use on warts/moles or genital/face areas unless prescribed.

Do not take Topisal 6% if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Oral retinoids are absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy and in anyone who might become pregnant without a pregnancy prevention programme. Topical retinoids are avoided in pregnancy.

Interactions with other medicines

Increased irritation with other topical keratolytics/retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene), benzoyl peroxide, topical steroids (may increase absorption), other exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA). If used over large areas, may increase absorption of topical medicines.

How to store Topisal 6% Ointment

Store below 25°C. Keep tightly closed. Protect from heat and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Topisal 6% Ointment

Apply retinoids at night to clean, dry skin, and moisturise afterwards. Give it at least eight to twelve weeks before judging whether it works. Do not pick or squeeze spots — that is what leaves scars.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

SYSTOPIC LAB

Therapeutic class:

Dermatological (Keratolytic)

Drug class:

Keratolytic (Salicylic acid)