Table of contents:
- Different forms of topical medication
- 1. Medicinal cream
- 2. Medicated foam (foam)
- 3. Drug gel
- 4. Drug lotion
- 5. Ointments
- Select which one?
If you have been prescribed or used a medicine that is labeled "topical" this means that it is intended for external use only. More precisely, topical drugs are types of drugs that are applied directly to the surface of the skin. Topical medicine itself is divided into several types, namely creams, foams, gels, lotions and ointments. If they are all used the same way, then what is the difference?
Different forms of topical medication
Giving topical drugs to the skin and mucous membranes is intended so that the drug can enter the body directly through the area. These drugs are usually used to relieve pain, provide nutrition to the skin, or protect the skin from certain risks or problems.
Here are some types of topical drugs and their respective functions:
1. Medicinal cream
Topical creams are generally used to treat a wide range of skin problems, ranging from insect bites, eczema, dermatitis, rashes, to itching in the intimate organs. This drug can also be used to reduce swelling and redness due to allergy symptoms.
The ingredients in topical creams can be corticosteroids (hydrocortisone), salicylic acid, or retinoids.
Topical creams should only be applied to the skin of the body, but not to the face, armpits and scalp. Unless medicine has been specific to the area or your doctor recommends it.
2. Medicated foam (foam)
Skin problems that are treated with topical creams can usually also be treated with topical medications from the type of foam.
In addition, topical foams are also found in acne-fighting products and local anesthetics. Anesthetics are usually given before a person undergoes a procedure such as an endoscopy.
If you are using a foam medication to treat acne, you can apply the medication directly to the pimple that appears. Meanwhile, foam medication that is intended as an anesthetic must be used by medical personnel following the recommended dosage.
3. Drug gel
Topical gels are generally used to treat muscle and joint pain, especially in people with arthritis, back pain, and muscle injuries.
The content of menthol and methyl salicylate in it works by providing a cold sensation, then followed by a feeling of warmth so that you are distracted from the pain.
Like other types of topical medications, topical gels should only be used on the skin. Do not apply it to skin that is injured or irritated.
Side effects in the form of redness and burning may appear, but discontinue use if these effects get worse.
4. Drug lotion
Depending on the function, topical lotions can contain salicylic acid, vitamin D, or moisturizers. This drug is used to treat itching, redness, and swelling due to skin diseases.
Some types of topical lotions also contain antibiotics to stop the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Topical lotions have the advantage over other topical drugs, namely that they trap water so that skin moisture is maintained. Therefore, lotions are also often used to control symptoms of inflammation in the skin and the surrounding area.
5. Ointments
Other types of topical drugs that are commonly used are ointments.
Ointments are oil or fat-based topical medicines that contain active ingredients according to their main function, ranging from salicylic acid, moisturizers, antibiotics, to vitamin D. All these ingredients are mixed using a type of oil so that the ointment tends to leave a sticky mark.
To use it, clean the skin with water and pat dry. Apply a thin layer, then massage a little until the ointment absorbs. Some eye medications are sometimes also in the form of ointments. Eye ointments can be applied directly to the inside of the eyelids in the same way.
Select which one?
Topical drugs come in various forms with their respective functions. If one of the topicals doesn't work effectively for you, you may need to use another form of topical medication.
Before using any type of topical medication, make sure you understand how to use it. This is so that the drug works optimally with a smaller risk of side effects.
