Turpentine ointment

Turpentine ointment is a medicine containing turpentine oil or turpentine as the active ingredient. Turpentine oil is obtained from the resins of wood species such as pine or spruce. This oil is often used in medicine and cosmetology due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and warming properties.

It is important to remember that you should consult your doctor before using turpentine ointment, especially if you have any comorbidities or are taking other medications. Improper use or applying the ointment to damaged skin may cause unwanted side effects.

Indications Turpentine ointment

Turpentine ointment is commonly applied externally to treat a variety of conditions including:

1. Muscle pain and rheumatic diseases: Turpentine oil has a warming effect that can help relieve muscle tension and reduce pain in rheumatic diseases.
2. Colds and coughs: In some cases, turpentine ointment may be used to warm the chest and relieve coughs and other cold symptoms.
3. Arthritis and Osteoarthritis: Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, turpentine oil can help reduce inflammation in the joints in arthritis and osteoarthritis.
4. Myositis and other inflammatory muscle conditions: Turpentine ointment can be used to reduce inflammation and pain in myositis and other inflammatory muscle conditions.
5. Some skin problems: In some cases, turpentine ointment may be used to treat minor skin problems such as blackheads, insect bites, or flaky skin.

Release form

Features of the form of release:

• Theconcentration of turpentine oil in the ointment may vary, but most often it ranges from 10% to 30%. The choice of concentration depends on the intended application and skin sensitivity.
• The ointment is packaged in tubes or jars of various volumes for ease of use and storage.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Local irritant effect: Turpentine oil may cause irritation of skin and mucous membranes on contact. This property is due to its ability to irritate nerve receptors in the skin and cause blood flow in the area of application.
2. Anti-inflammatory action: Turpentine oil has a local anti-inflammatory effect by reducing the secretion of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators.
3. Topical antiseptic action: Turpentine oil has antiseptic properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi on the skin.
4. Warming effect: Application of turpentine ointment may cause a sensation of warmth in the area of application, which is due to the improvement of local blood circulation.
5. Aromatherapeutic Action: Turpentine oil can have a calming and relaxing effect on the patient due to its aromatic properties.

Pharmacokinetics

There is minimal or no systemic absorption of turpentine oil when applied externally, so pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) are not usually considered.

Dosing and administration

Method of Application:

1. Preparation: Make sure that the skin at the application site is clean and dry. The ointment should not be applied to damaged skin, open wounds or mucous membranes.
2. Application: Take a small amount of ointment and apply to the affected area of the skin. The ointment should be gently rubbed in circular motions until it is completely absorbed. Avoid applying strong pressure to the skin to prevent additional irritation.
3. Frequency of use: Usually turpentine ointment is applied 1-2 times a day, depending on the doctor's instructions and response to treatment.
4. Duration of treatment: The duration of turpentine ointment use depends on the condition and should be determined by a doctor. It is not recommended to use the ointment for a long period of time without consulting a specialist.

Dosage:

The dosage of turpentine ointment depends on the area to be treated and the severity of the condition. Usually it is enough to apply a thin layer of ointment on the affected area. It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations or the instructions on the package of the drug.

Special Instructions:

• Using turpentine ointment may cause temporary redness, burning or a warm sensation at the application site. These symptoms are usually temporary.
• In case of severe irritation, itching or allergic reaction, you should immediately stop using the ointment and consult a doctor.
• After applying the ointment, it is recommended to avoid direct exposure of the treated skin areas to cold, as this may increase irritation.
• Do not use turpentine ointment with other topical medications without consulting your doctor.

Use Turpentine ointment during pregnancy

The use of turpentine oil during pregnancy may be associated with risks to fetal development, including the possibility of fetal toxicity.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: People with known hypersensitivity to turpentine oil or other components of the ointment should not use it because of the risk of allergic reactions.
2. Allergies and Asthma: Turpentine oil may cause allergic reactions in people with allergies to pine or other pine products. It can also be irritating to people with asthma or other respiratory problems.
3. Damaged skin: It is not recommended to apply ointment to open wounds, scratches or cuts on the skin due to possible irritation and aggravation of the condition.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is limited information on the safety of using turpentine oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is recommended to consult a physician before use in such cases.
5. Children: Turpentine oil may be too irritating for sensitive children's skin, so its use in children requires caution and may be undesirable.
6. Renal insufficiency: In patients with severe renal impairment, turpentine oil may accumulate in the body and cause serious side effects.

Side effects Turpentine ointment

1. Skin irritation: Some patients may experience skin irritation, redness or itching at the site of ointment application. This may be particularly pronounced with damaged skin or excessive use of the ointment.
2. Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to turpentine oil, which may result in an allergic reaction such as skin rash, skin redness, swelling or burning. If signs of allergy occur, you should stop using the ointment immediately and consult a doctor.
3. Respiratory problems: Inhaling turpentine oil vapors, especially in large quantities, can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing, or asthmatic attacks in some people.
4. Increased irritation of mucous membranes: If the ointment comes into contact with mucous membranes such as the eyes or nose, severe irritation and burning may occur.
5. Toxic effects from ingestion: ingestion of turpentine oil can be toxic and cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache or even acute poisoning.

Overdose

Overdose of turpentine ointment containing turpentine oil may cause serious complications and adverse reactions. Overdose may cause acute skin reaction, allergic reactions including itching, redness, swelling, irritation and even burns.

In case of overdose, discontinue use of turpentine ointment and seek immediate medical attention. Doctors may recommend flushing the skin area with plenty of water and prescribe symptomatic treatment depending on the severity of symptoms.

Interactions with other drugs

1. Topical antiseptics: Using turpentine oil with other topical antiseptics may increase the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
2. Topical creams and ointments: Mixing turpentine oil with other topical medications may alter their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions.
3. Systemic medications: Although turpentine oil is usually used topically, ingestion may interact with some systemic medications. For example, when taken orally, turpentine oil may affect the systemic metabolism of other drugs.
4. Local anesthetics: Combined use of turpentine oil with local anesthetics may increase their effect, which may lead to excessive anesthesia.
5. Drugs for skin diseases: Using turpentine ointment together with other drugs for skin diseases may cause undesirable effects or reduce the effectiveness of treatment.