Desitin

Composition of Desitina

In addition to the active component, the role of which is zinc oxide , Desitin contains the following as excipients:

white petroleum jelly (Vaselinum album);
fish oil from the liver of cod fish (Oleum jecoris Aselli);
talc (Talcum);
butylated hydroxyanisole;
anhydrous lanolin (Lanolinum anhydricum);
methylparaben (Methylparaben);
flavored oil.

The listed components ensure good absorption of the drug and uniform distribution of its active substance throughout the main physical phase. They are also characterized by a number of properties that complement and enhance the effect of zinc oxide .

Composition and release form

The American manufacturer Pfizer produces Desitin in the form of a thick white ointment. It is homogeneous, smells faintly of herbs and fish oil. Slight graining is one of the characteristic features of the drug, and not a sign of its deterioration. 40% ointment is packaged in 47 g in a plastic tube with a screw cap. Inside the cardboard box there are also detailed instructions for use.

The active ingredient in Desitin is zinc oxide. This is one of the first chemical compounds to be used to treat weeping skin lesions.

The auxiliary composition is represented by the following components:

white Vaseline;
fish oil from the liver of cod fish;
talc;
butylated hydroxyanisole;
anhydrous lanolin;
methylparaben;
flavored oil.

Additional ingredients promote rapid absorption of the ointment and uniform distribution of zinc oxide in inflammatory areas. Many of them have their own medicinal properties. For example, lanolin is included in the group of antiseptics, and fish oil accelerates skin restoration. Talc enhances and prolongs the drying effect of zinc oxide.

The box contains information about the composition and brief instructions for use.

Pharmacological properties

Desitin ointment exhibits astringent, anti-inflammatory, adsorbent, drying and antiseptic activity. Most of its therapeutic effects are due to the presence of a high concentration of zinc oxide in the composition. The chemical compound accelerates the denaturation of proteins with the formation of albuminates.

Zinc oxide has a variety of pharmacological properties:

attracts toxic substances to its surface, binds them and brings them to the surface of the epidermis;
relieves inflammatory processes, eliminates skin irritation and rashes;
adsorbs excess moisture, preventing the damaged dermis from becoming wet;
normalizes water and electrolyte balance;
reduces the severity of pain, burning and itching;
prevents the active reproduction of Staphylococcus aureus and epidermal staphylococci, opportunistic fungi.

Vaseline and lanolin from Desitin ointment form a thin but durable film. It reliably protects damaged skin areas from the introduction of pathogenic microorganisms.

Fish oil is a source of polyunsaturated fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. It nourishes the skin, saturates it with substances necessary for the fastest possible recovery.

Vitamins A and D contained in fish oil accelerate skin regeneration

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

Zinc oxide belongs to the group of anti-inflammatory agents for topical use. It is a slightly toxic, odorless, amorphous powder, white or slightly yellowish.

The powder is capable of absorbing carbon dioxide from the air, is insoluble in water and ethanol , and is soluble in dilute mineral acids, acetic acid , as well as in alkaline solutions.

Zinc oxide stimulates the processes of protein denaturation and promotes the formation of albuminates . When applied to affected areas of the skin, it reduces the severity of exudative phenomena, relieves inflammation and tissue irritation, and creates a protective barrier on the skin against irritating external factors.

Desitin cream is used exclusively as an external remedy. By adsorbing excess fat and sweat from the skin, it prevents the development of diaper dermatitis in children and suppresses the development of inflammatory reactions in the early stages.

In addition, the cream forms a protective layer on the affected areas, which helps neutralize the effects of the negative effects of urine, salts and other irritants on the skin, and also effectively softens it.

the zinc oxide and cod liver oil it contains anhydrous lanolin and white petroleum jelly .

Since fish oil , lanolin and petroleum jelly are products of natural origin, the film formed after applying Desitin to the skin is similar in structure to the natural sweat-fat layer, which also performs a barrier function.

The film adheres well to the skin and mucous membranes, while maintaining its activity for several hours. This is especially important at night, when baby's skin is in contact with wet clothes and diapers for the longest time.

Desitin also has moderate astringent properties, which makes it possible to use it to reduce the severity and relieve inflammation in case of minor burns and damage to the integrity of the skin (for example, scratches and cuts). A similar effect is observed when used to relieve symptoms of eczema .

There are no data on the pharmacokinetic parameters of the drug.

Instructions for use

Following the instructions for use of Desitin will help speed up skin restoration. It occurs faster if the ointment is used at the first signs of damage. Applying it to mild redness and irritation will help stop the spread of inflammation.

Apply the product after washing the skin with warm water and drying it:

apply to cuts, abrasions, scratches, rub lightly 2-3 times a day;
spread in a thin layer on allergic rashes 2 times a day;
Apply spotwise to large acne, and a thin layer to small pimples.

Trophic ulcers and bedsores are first cleaned of dead tissue and inflammatory products. Then they are treated with antiseptic solutions, dried, and the ointment is distributed on the surface of the wounds. If necessary, cover them with breathable bandages.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the disease. It takes about 3-5 days to eliminate dermatitis rashes and heal abrasions. Bedsores and trophic ulcers begin to heal after 1-2 weeks.

The duration of the course is determined by the type and nature of the disease

For children

Desitin cream (as ointment is often called) is one of the most popular remedies for diaper rash. It is applied after each diaper change, after thoroughly rinsing the skin with water. For existing diaper rash, the drug is combined with antiseptics and regeneration stimulants (Bepanten, Panthenol). For prevention, it is enough to use only it regularly.

We recommend

Bepanten ointment - instructions for use for dry skin.

The same algorithm of actions in the treatment of diaper dermatitis. The ointment is applied to clean and dry skin after changing the diaper. But pediatricians recommend taking one-hour breaks a couple of times a day. The remaining ointment should be washed off and the child’s skin should be allowed to “breathe.” This helps strengthen local immunity and increases immunity to moisture. Desitin is a cream for diaper rash and dermatitis that can be used indefinitely.

To treat diaper rash, ointment should be applied when changing diapers.

Overdose

Desitin ointment only affects damaged skin. Its ingredients do not accumulate in it in excessively high concentrations. Therefore, no overdose has been observed in clinical practice. If the drug is accidentally swallowed, epigastric pain and nausea may occur. It is necessary to quickly rinse the stomach, take activated charcoal and consult a doctor.

Side effects

Side effects are possible only if you are hypersensitive to one of the ingredients. These are characteristic symptoms of allergies - itching, rash, redness and irritation of the skin. The product must be washed off with warm water, take an antihistamine and seek medical help.

special instructions

Before using Desitin for the first time, you should do some testing. To do this, rub a little ointment into the bend of your elbow. If after half an hour the skin does not turn red or swell, then there is no hypersensitivity to the components. Contact of the product with the mucous membranes of the eyes or nose requires rinsing with water. If conjunctival irritation, severe burning and pain occur, symptomatic treatment is required.

It is forbidden to apply Desitin to a child’s skin that has not been previously cleansed. Urine will remain under the layer of Vaseline and lanolin. This can lead to increased inflammation and the development of a bacterial infection.

If there is no improvement after a week of treatment, you should consult a doctor. He will clarify the diagnosis, increase the dosage or prescribe a drug with another active ingredient.

If there is no improvement after 6-7 days of treatment, the drug must be replaced

Storage conditions and periods

The shelf life of the drug is 3 years. After opening the tube, it should be used within 2-3 months. Desitin cream should be stored at room temperature, away from sunlight. Its unsuitability for treatment is indicated by changes in color and odor. Delamination of the product is allowed. Access to the storage area by small children should be limited.

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies

The combined product is dispensed from pharmacies without a prescription from a doctor.

Drug interactions

Desitin ointment does not interact with other drugs for local and systemic use. It does not lead to any changes in the absorption, metabolism and distribution of their ingredients.

Indications for use

Desitin recommended:

for dermatitis of various etiologies (including diaper dermatitis in infants);
for the treatment of superficial wounds ( scratches , cuts , abrasions , etc.);
for small-area, mild burns of various origins (solar, thermal, chemical, etc.);
to eliminate diaper rash ;
to relieve symptoms of prickly heat in children;
for bedsores ;
in the presence of ulcerative lesions of the skin (including trophic ulcers );
for the treatment of eczema during periods of exacerbation of the disease;
for herpes ;
for purulent skin lesions caused by streptococcal infection .

Expert opinion

Lyudmila Sheveleva, pharmacist

Desitin ointment is a drug that should be in every home medicine cabinet. It combines high safety and diverse therapeutic properties. The ointment will dry the wounds, relieve inflammation, and relieve discomfort. It is especially indispensable in the prevention of diaper rash and diaper dermatitis in infants. Regular application of Desitin will help avoid redness and irritation of the baby's delicate skin. This means that he will sleep well and will stop being capricious during feeding.

Instructions for use of Desitin (Method and dosage)

For diaper dermatitis in infants, therapy with Desitin cream begins when symptoms such as rash , diaper rash and skin irritation appear. The drug is applied to the affected areas in a thin layer three times a day. If necessary, the number of procedures is increased.

Before using Desitin ointment, the skin should be pre-prepared: wash with warm water and dry well. The standard recommendation is to use Desitin every time you change a diaper or diaper. The optimal number of treatments for the affected surface is from four to six times per day.

As a rule, it takes two to three days to cure diaper dermatitis , after which you can continue to use Desitin for preventive purposes. Prevention involves applying the drug to those areas of the skin that will be covered with a diaper or diaper and potentially in contact with urine and feces .

Prophylactic use is especially advisable before bedtime and in cases where it is expected that the child will be in certain clothes for a long time (for example, during a trip to the store or a trip to the clinic).

To prevent diaper dermatitis , the drug can be used for a long period of time, and the drug can be applied to absolutely clean and healthy skin.

Desitin is used in a similar way for allergic and other rashes , diathesis and atopic dermatitis in infants, and for diaper rash in newborns.

For people suffering from acne , it is recommended to apply the drug once or twice a day - for example, morning and evening - for one to two weeks. During the day, the skin is cleansed of cream residues and allowed to “breathe” for at least an hour (optimally in the fresh air).

If single pimples appear, the cream is applied to them before bedtime. Continuous use of the product is allowed for a month.

When treating wounds and burns, the instructions for use of Desitin recommend applying a thin layer of the product to the affected area, if necessary, covering with a sterile gauze pad or bandage.

It is important to remember that the drug can only be used in the presence of superficial and non-infected lesions. If an infectious process has developed on the skin, the cream should not be applied.

Desitin (zinc oxide) is a dermaprotective agent. Used to eliminate and prevent diaper dermatitis. It is also used as a first aid remedy for minor damage to the skin (damage caused by high temperature, sunlight or certain chemicals, shallow and small incised wounds, scratches). Desitin protects the baby's skin from the irritating effects of urine and other agents, softens the skin. The dermatoprotective effect of the drug is realized due to the presence of zinc oxide and a set of excipients, which, interacting with the active ingredient, create a physiological protective barrier, covering the skin and mucous membranes. This barrier relieves irritation and prevents the formation of diaper rash. The effect of the drug develops within 24 hours from the start of use. Desitin protects baby's skin from excess hydration. This is important, first of all, at night, when wet diapers may not be replaced with dry ones for a long time. The possibility of using Desitin as a means of first aid for minor damage to the skin is due to the presence of a moderate astringent and anti-inflammatory effect. Desitin is contraindicated for persons with individual intolerance to zinc oxide or any auxiliary component of the drug (which includes cod liver oil, methylparaben and five other compounds).

The drug is indicated exclusively for topical use. In case of diaper dermatitis, before applying Desitin, it is necessary to wash and wipe the area of skin affected by the rash. For hyperemia, inflammation of skin folds that has developed as a result of the irritating and long-term moisturizing effect of skin secretion products (sebum, sweat), as well as friction of contacting surfaces, Desitin is used three or more times a day (usually with every change of diapers or diapers) . For prophylactic purposes, the drug is usually used before bedtime. For minor damage to the skin, Desitin is applied in a thin layer, if necessary, occlusively (under a bandage). The medicine is applied only to skin not affected by bacteria. Side effects of the drug are not described in specialized medical literature. No cases of overdose have been reported to date. Desitin does not interact with other drugs. After applying the drug, you must wash your hands thoroughly so that the drug does not get into your eyes. If the symptoms of diaper dermatitis do not go away within 2-3 days of using Desitin, consultation with a pediatrician is necessary. When a medicinal product expires, it must be disposed of.

special instructions

When using Desitin, avoid contact of the composition with the eyes. After applying the drug to the skin, wash your hands thoroughly.

If after two to three days the rashes do not disappear after using the drug, it is recommended to consult a doctor for examination and clarification of the diagnosis.

Before using the ointment, you need to evaluate its smell. Under normal conditions, a drug suitable for use has a faint specific odor, similar to the odor of fish oil . If storage conditions are not observed, Desitin may deteriorate and lose its pharmacological effectiveness.

Evidence of its unsuitability is the pronounced unpleasant smell of rotten fish . This cream should be thrown away and should not be applied to the skin.

Analogs

Level 4 ATC code matches:
Zinc oxide

Zinc ointment

Zinc paste

Sudocrem

Tsindol

The pharmaceutical market of Russia and Ukraine is represented not by analogous, but by drugs synonymous with Desitin. Like Desitin, they contain zinc oxide . There are no analogues that would have a similar effect, but are characterized by a different composition of active and auxiliary components.

Synonyms of Desitin are:

dermatotropic agent Tsindol , which is available in the form of a suspension for external use;
Zinc oxide liniment;
zinc ointment;
zinc paste.

Reviews about Desitin

The vast majority of reviews about Desitin are positive. This is due to the fact that the drug has a pronounced therapeutic effect within the first few hours after application.

Against the background of its use, there is a rapid disappearance of skin rashes, acne and pimples , the onset of remission in atopic dermatitis , as well as the healing process of superficial skin damage and burns of the inflammatory process are reduced or completely eliminated . All this is a clear demonstration of the excellent medicinal properties of the drug.

Also, the forums are replete with a lot of positive reviews of Desitin for newborns. The average rating of the cream is 4.5 on a 5-point scale. Many mothers of infants note that, using Desitin, they were able to cope with diaper rash , redness and rashes , even in cases where other drugs were powerless.

In addition, they all note as advantages of the drug that:

it can be used for a long time;
it effectively eliminates unpleasant symptoms even in extreme heat;
it is suitable for sensitive skin.

There are, of course, negative reviews, but almost all of them are not related to the effectiveness of the drug, but to its specific smell. skin dryness increased while using the product . The latter, however, is observed quite rarely and is determined primarily by the level of individual sensitivity to the components of the drug.

Desitin price, where to buy

The price of Desitin cream in different pharmacies and cities may vary. Pricing is also somewhat influenced by the fact that the drug comes to the Russian and Ukrainian markets from both the USA and Canada.

However, as a rule, the difference in the cost of Canadian and American drugs is insignificant: for the Russian market it is about 10 rubles, for the Ukrainian market - 2-3 hryvnia.

The average price of cream in Ukraine is 65 hryvnia. You can buy Desitin in Kyiv and other large cities (for example, Donetsk, Odessa or Kharkov) both in regular pharmacy chains and through an online pharmacy.

The feasibility of such a purchase can be assessed by comparing the price of Desitin ointment on the Internet (including delivery) with the average market price in city pharmacies.

In Moscow and other large cities of Russia, the cream is sold on average for 200-210 rubles per package with a capacity of 57 g.