ammonium lactate

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum:

ammonium lactate is a combination of lactic acid and ammonium hydroxide, commonly used as a topical moisturizer and exfoliant. Here are some of its actions and spectrum:

• Moisturizing: ammonium lactate is a humectant, which means it attracts and retains moisture. It is commonly used to treat dry and scaly skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris.
• Exfoliating: lactic acid in ammonium lactate is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to exfoliate the skin by dissolving dead skin cells. This helps to improve the texture and tone of the skin.
• Keratolytic: ammonium lactate can break down the protein called keratin, which is found in the outer layer of the skin. This property makes it useful for treating conditions such as hyperkeratosis, a buildup of keratin that can lead to thick, scaly patches of skin.
• pH balancing: lactic acid in ammonium lactate helps to balance the pH of the skin, which can help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi on the skin.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency Defined

>10%

Irritation (15%)

Peeling (16%)

Transient burning/stinging (33%)

Erythema (20%)

1-10%

Itching (5%)

Dry skin (2%)

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:

There are no black box warnings associated with the use of ammonium lactate.

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:

ammonium lactate should not be used in patients who have an allergy to any of the components of the medication. It is also contraindicated for individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to lactic acid or any other alpha-hydroxy acids.

Patients with kidney or liver problems, as well as those with a history of metabolic acidosis, should use ammonium lactate with caution. It should not be used on open wounds or irritated skin, as it may cause further irritation.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult with their healthcare provider before using ammonium lactate, as there is limited information available on its safety in these populations.

Finally, ammonium lactate should not be used in conjunction with other skin care products containing alpha-hydroxy acids or retinoids, as it may increase the risk of skin irritation and sensitivity.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:   

Pregnancy category: B

Lactation: No data available; Use caution

Pregnancy Categories:     

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester.

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:

ammonium lactate is a medication that is used topically to treat dry, scaly, itchy skin caused by certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or keratosis pilaris. It works by moisturizing the skin and increasing the water content in the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum.

Pharmacodynamics:

ammonium lactate is a combination of lactic acid and ammonium hydroxide, which work together to exfoliate the skin and increase hydration. lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new cells. It also helps to improve skin texture, tone, and pigmentation.

Pharmacokinetics:

Absorption

ammonium lactate is a topical medication, meaning it is applied directly to the skin. It is absorbed into the skin and then into the bloodstream. The rate and extent of absorption depend on the condition of the skin and the formulation of the medication.

Distribution

Once absorbed, ammonium lactate is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. The distribution is limited by the drug’s polarity and binding to plasma proteins.

Metabolism

ammonium lactate is metabolized in the liver, and the breakdown products are excreted in the urine. However, the metabolism of ammonium lactate is minimal, and the drug is mostly eliminated unchanged.

Elimination and Excretion

ammonium lactate is excreted primarily in the urine, but it may also be eliminated in the feces and through sweating. The elimination half-life is about 12 hours.

Adminstartion

Administration:

ammonium lactate is typically administered topically as a lotion or cream to treat dry, itchy, or scaly skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or keratosis pilaris. It is also used to help smooth rough or callused skin.

The lotion or cream should be applied to the affected area(s) once or twice a day, as directed by a healthcare provider. It is important to avoid getting the medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

In rare cases, some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to ammonium lactate, so it is important to discontinue use and seek medical attention if any adverse effects occur.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet

Generic Name: ammonium lactate

Why do we use ammonium lactate?

ammonium lactate is used to treat dry, scaly, and itchy skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris. It works by moisturizing and softening the skin, and by exfoliating dead skin cells.

The ammonium component of ammonium lactate helps to restore the skin’s natural pH balance, while the lactic acid component helps to gently remove dead skin cells.

Additionally, ammonium lactate may help to improve the appearance of rough or callused skin. Overall, ammonium lactate is a useful topical medication for improving the health and appearance of dry, rough, or scaly skin.