Kerasol

• Acne Vulgaris:
  Topical treatment for mild to moderate acne to reduce comedones and inflammation.
• Psoriasis:
  Used as a keratolytic agent to remove scales and soften plaques in chronic plaque psoriasis.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis:
  Management of scaling and crusting.
• Warts, Corns, and Calluses:
  Keratolytic agent for removal of common warts, plantar warts, corns, and calluses.
• Dandruff:
  Treatment of scalp scaling and flaking.
• Other Uses:
• Hyperkeratotic skin disorders such as ichthyosis.
• Enhances penetration of other topical agents by exfoliating the stratum corneum.

• Topical Application:
• Concentrations range from 0.5% to 40%, depending on indication and formulation (creams, gels, lotions, shampoos, plasters).
• For acne and seborrheic dermatitis: 0.5% to 3% applied once or twice daily.
• For psoriasis and hyperkeratotic lesions: 5% to 10%, sometimes higher under medical supervision.
• For warts and corns: concentrations up to 40% applied once daily as a plaster or solution.
• Treatment duration varies from weeks to months depending on condition and response.
• Special Populations:
  Use with caution in children, elderly, and those with sensitive skin.
• Administration Notes:
• Apply to clean, dry skin avoiding eyes and mucous membranes.
• Discontinue if irritation or allergic reaction occurs.

Salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic by solubilizing the intercellular cement of the stratum corneum, promoting exfoliation of dead skin cells. This reduces hyperkeratosis and follicular plugging, particularly in acne, allowing for improved skin turnover. It also possesses mild anti-inflammatory properties. By softening and removing scales, it facilitates penetration of other topical medications.

• Absorption:
  Minimal systemic absorption when applied to intact skin; absorption increases with larger treated area, higher concentration, or damaged skin.
• Distribution:
  Systemic distribution limited due to minimal absorption.
• Metabolism:
  Metabolized primarily in the liver to salicyluric acid and other inactive metabolites.
• Excretion:
  Eliminated mainly through renal excretion.
• Onset of Action:
  Effects may be seen within days to weeks depending on condition treated.
• Half-life:
  Not clinically relevant for topical use due to minimal systemic exposure.

• Pregnancy:
  Classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C for systemic salicylates; topical use in recommended amounts is generally considered safe. However, systemic absorption should be minimized especially in the third trimester.
• Lactation:
  Limited data available; topical use is considered low risk but should be used with caution.

• Primary Therapeutic Class:
  Keratolytic agent.
• Subclass:
  Topical dermatologic agent.

• Hypersensitivity to salicylic acid or related compounds (e.g., aspirin allergy).
• Application on large areas of damaged or inflamed skin.
• Patients with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulant therapy (due to risk of systemic absorption).
• Avoid use near eyes, mucous membranes, or in children under two years.

• Excessive use or application on large areas can lead to salicylate toxicity, especially in children.
• May cause skin irritation, redness, peeling, or dermatitis.
• Photosensitivity may occur; sun protection is advised during treatment.
• Allergic reactions, though rare, require discontinuation.
• Use cautiously in children and patients with sensitive skin.

• Common:
• Skin irritation
• Dryness
• Peeling
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Serious/Rare:
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Systemic salicylate toxicity (rare, usually with excessive use) including tinnitus, nausea, vomiting
• Photosensitivity reactions
• Onset:
  Side effects generally develop within days of initiation.

• Increased skin irritation may occur when used with other topical keratolytics or retinoids.
• Caution with systemic anticoagulants or salicylates due to additive systemic effects.
• No known significant food or alcohol interactions with topical use.

• No significant recent changes in indications or dosing.
• Continues to be recommended as a first-line keratolytic agent for acne, psoriasis, and warts.
• Emphasis on appropriate patient education to prevent misuse and adverse effects.

• Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in a dry place.
• Protect from light and moisture.
• Keep containers tightly closed.
• Avoid freezing.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Shake well before use if applicable.