Ichtammol

Ichthyol ointment has a pronounced local anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect, has antipruritic ikeratostatichesky effect.

Mechanism of action. The effect of ichthyol is due to the presence of thiophenol components (the main of which is thiophene), containing up to 10.5% of organically bound sulfur. Ichthyol thiophenes have a bactericidal effect on gram-positive microorganisms (including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes), as well as yeast-like fungi due to the denaturation of the membrane proteins of their cells. Gram-negative microorganisms ichthyol has no effect.

Immediately after the application of the ointment, its slightly irritating effect is manifested in the form of a sensation of heat, hyperemia at the site of application of the medicine. It is associated with the direct activation of the thiophenol components of the ointment of pain and thermoreceptors in the tissue. After stimulation of pain receptors, impulses, along sensory nerve fibers, are transmitted to the spinal cord, where they include trophic reflexes of the sympathetic nervous system. Sympathetic stimulation stimulates blood circulation in soft tissues and skin, enhances the processes of regeneration and metabolism in the skin. Subsequently (after 1-2 hours) the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of the ointment appears on the underlying layers of soft tissues at the site of application.

The local anti-inflammatory effect of ichthyol is due to a decrease in the synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators, accelerating their metabolism. The ichthiol inhibits leukocyte migration to the inflammatory focus in response to the chemotactic factors — the C5a component of the compliment, leukotriene B4, and the tripeptide Met-Leu-Phe.

Eliminates itching and the process of excessive keratinization of the skin, due to the violation of the inclusion of new protein molecules in the keratin composition. At the same time, the skin becomes less dense, its elasticity improves, the excess peeling disappears, the horny growths in the places of pressure and friction.

Ichthyol has a photoprotective effect and reduces the sensitivity of the skin to UV radiation.

Pharmacokinetics

After applying on intact skin, the subocclusal bandage is slowly absorbed. Systemic absorption is 5-10%. The absorbed portion of the thiophenol components of ichthyol is excreted in the bile and removed from the body through the intestines.