Anthropometric Measurements as Predictors of Low Birth Weight Among Tanzanian Neonates: A Hospital-Based Study
November 7, 2025
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Brand Name :
Drawing Out Salve, Boyol Salve
Synonyms :
ichthammol
Class :
Antiseptic and germicide
Brand Name :
Drawing Out Salve, Boyol Salve
Synonyms :
ichthammol
Class :
Antiseptic and germicide
Dosage forms and strengths
ichthammol ointment
20 grams in 100 grams
Cleanse the area thoroughly and apply ointment on gauze bandage once or twice daily as required.
Not indicated
Refer adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum:
Action
Anti-inflammatory: ichthammol has mild anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the skin, it can help reduce localized inflammation, redness, and swelling.
Antibacterial: It possesses mild antibacterial properties that can help prevent or control bacterial infections in minor skin wounds or boils. It is often used as a component in ointments for such purposes.
Spectrum:
Boils and Abscesses: ichthammol is often used in the treatment of boils (skin abscesses) by promoting the drainage of pus and reducing inflammation.
Minor Skin Infections: It has the potential to be employed for managing minor skin infections, including infected cuts, scratches, and insect bites.
Frequency not defined
Dry or irritated skin
Skin rash
Nausea
Changes to skin color
Black Box Warning:
None
Contraindication/Caution:
Allergy or Sensitivity: Individuals who have a known allergy or sensitivity to ichthammol or any of its components should avoid using products containing this ingredient.
Open Wounds or Broken Skin: Using ichthammol on open wounds, broken skin, or deep cuts may not be advisable, as it can potentially cause irritation or infection.
Severe Infections: ichthammol should not be used on severe or deep-seated infections without the guidance of a healthcare professional. It might mask the severity of the infection or delay proper treatment.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While there is limited information on the safety of ichthammol during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using it in these situations.
Children: The safety of ichthammol for children under a certain age may not be well-established. Seek advice from a medical professional prior to administering this to children.
Pregnancy warnings:
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown
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.
<b>Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus 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 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:
ichthammol, also known as “Ammonium bituminosulfonate,” is a medication with diverse uses in dermatology and wound care.
Pharmacodynamics:
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: ichthammol has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties It inhibits the discharge of inflammatory agents, like prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and cytokines, from immune cells. This can help reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with various skin conditions.
Antibacterial Effects: ichthammol has demonstrated antibacterial activity against a wide range of bacteria. This property makes it useful in the treatment of infections that can affect the skin, such as certain types of bacterial dermatitis and superficial skin infections.
Pharmacokinetics:
N/A
Administration:
Apply a thin layer of Ichthammol ointment to the affected region using a fresh cotton swab or gauze pad.
Make sure the ointment covers the entire affected area but avoid applying too much, as it can be messy.
If directed by a healthcare professional, you may cover the area with a sterile bandage or gauze after applying the ointment.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: ichthammol
Why do we use ichthammol?
Skin Conditions: ichthammol is commonly applied to the skin’s surface for the treatment of diverse skin issues including but not limited to boils, abscesses, and acne. This substance is thought to possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial characteristics that may contribute to the reduction of inflammation, facilitation of drainage, and enhancement of the recovery process.
Boils and Abscesses: ichthammol is commonly used as a “drawing salve” for boils and abscesses. Applying the ointment to the affected area may help soften the skin, encourage the pus to come to the surface, and promote healing.
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