Topical medication
Topical Medication
Topical medication (pronunciation: /ˈtɒpɪkəl ˌmɛdɪˈkeɪʃən/) is a type of medication that is applied to body surfaces such as the skin or mucous membranes to treat ailments.
Etymology
The term "topical" originates from the Greek word "topikos," which means "of a place." The term "medication" comes from the Latin "medicatio," meaning "a healing."
Definition
Topical medications are often used to deliver active ingredients directly to the affected area. They come in various forms, including creams, ointments, lotions, patches, and more.
Types of Topical Medications
- Creams: These are semi-solid emulsions of oil and water. They are more comfortable and cosmetically pleasing as they are less greasy and more easily washed off using water.
- Ointments: These are homogeneous, viscous, semi-solid preparations, most commonly a greasy, thick oil (like petrolatum) with a high viscosity.
- Lotions: These are applied to external skin with bare hands, a brush, a clean cloth, or cotton wool.
- Patches: These are adhesive patches that deliver a specific dose of medication through the skin.
Related Terms
- Dermatology: The branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases.
- Pharmacology: The study of drugs and their effects on the body.
- Prescription medication: Medications that require a medical prescription to be dispensed.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Topical medication
- Wikipedia's article - Topical medication
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