rhubarb extract/salicylic acid

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

Salicylic acid breaks down into the connections between dead skin cells to efficiently exfoliate the skin by deeply penetrating the pores.   

This action is aided by the antibacterial qualities of rhubarb extract. It fights bacteria that cause acne and reduces inflammation brought on by breakouts.  

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined   

Superficial tooth discoloration  

Bronchospasm  

Asthma  

Allergic reaction  

Rash  

Burning sensation   

Urticaria  

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning  

None   

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Contraindication:  

Rhubarb extract/salicylic acid products should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to salicylates or any other component of the formulation.   

Caution:  

Patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders should use with caution.  

Caution is taken in patients with renal impairment.  

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Pregnancy category: N/A  

Lactation: Excretion 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

Pharmacology   

Anthraquinones promote fecal evacuation and accelerate bowel motions by stimulating the colon’s peristalsis. While treating constipation this effect is helpful.  

Pharmacodynamics  

In the colon, the anthraquinone glycosides in rhubarb extract are metabolized by bacteria. It produces active metabolites such emodin and rhein.  

In the stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost layer, salicylic acid causes keratinocyte connections to break. This results in a keratolytic action.  

Pharmacokinetics  

Absorption    

Rhubarb extracts are absorbed through the intestinal mucosa and enter systemic circulation.  

Salicylic acid is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.  

Distribution  

Rhubarb extract metabolites are distributed throughout the body via systemic circulation.  

Salicylic acid is distributed widely throughout the body, including various tissues and organs.  

Metabolism  

Salicylic acid undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism.  

Excretion and Elimination  

Rhubarb extracts are excreted primarily via renal elimination.  

Salicylic acids are eliminated via renal excretion.  

Adminstartion

Administration  

Rhubarb extract is administered orally in the form of solution and liquid extracts.  

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet  

Generic Name: rhubarb extract/salicylic acid                        

Why do we use rhubarb extract/salicylic acid?                       

Rhubarb extract contains antioxidants such flavonoids and phenolic components that may help reduce oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals.  

Salicylic acid can exfoliate skin thus used to clear clogged pores and reduce acne marks.