Do you sometimes get a small bump on your arm or leg, or something like a corn stuck in your shoe? Sometimes these can be a bit annoying. So, there are medications that you can buy from pharmacies for these things. The most popular of them are medicated plasters. One of the main drugs contained in these plasters is salicylic acid. Today, we will talk about this medicine, how to use it, and what precautions you should take.
What kind of medicine is Salicylic Acid?
Simply put, salicylic acid is a chemical that gradually dissolves, softens, and removes the thick, rough layers of skin on your skin. It does this by loosening the top layer of dead skin cells and allowing them to slough off.
This medicine is mainly used for the following conditions:
- Common and Plantar Warts: These are the types of warts we see most often.
- Psoriasis: This is a condition in which skin cells grow rapidly, become thick, and peel off.
- Calluses and calluses: When the skin is constantly rubbed in the same place, it thickens to protect that area. We also call this calluses.
- Corns: These are similar to calluses, but usually form on the tops or sides of the toes.
The most important thing is that this is a topical medicine. That means it should only be applied to the skin. It should not be taken orally or injected into other parts of the body for any reason.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before you use this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions, as using this medicine at such times can be dangerous.
| Do you have this condition? | Why is it important to inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | People with diabetes need to be very careful when using this medicine because skin wounds take longer to heal and are more susceptible to infection. Especially since there may be decreased sensation in the feet, which can lead to unintended injuries. |
| Skin infections | Applying this medicine to an already infected area may worsen the condition. Do not use on areas with viral infections such as chickenpox or herpes. |
| Kidney or liver disease | The kidneys and liver are the organs that filter and remove medications that enter the body. If these organs are weak, the medication can accumulate in the body and cause side effects. |
| Burned or injured skin | Broken skin can absorb the medicine quickly into the body, so it is not recommended to use this if there is a large area of damage. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | You should ask your doctor before using any medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Some medications can affect the baby. |
| Allergies to other medications | If you have an allergy to salicylic acid or any other medicine, food, or dye, you must tell us. |
How exactly do you use this plaster?
This is very simple to use, but it is very important to do it correctly.
1. First, wash the area where you are going to apply the medicine thoroughly with soap and dry it thoroughly.
2. Read the instructions on the plaster carefully. Cut the plaster as directed and apply it only to the area that is affected by the infection or infection. Avoid applying this medicine to healthy skin as much as possible.
3. Do not apply this medicine to sensitive areas such as the eyes, lips, nose, mouth, or genitals.
4. Do not use this on injured, broken, or red, swollen areas.
5. Change the plaster according to the instructions. Do not leave it on for too long or remove it too often.
If you use it for small children...
Even for children as young as 2 years old, doctors may recommend this in some special cases. But there are special precautions. Never use these on young children without the advice of a doctor.
What if the medicine is used too much? (Overdosage)
If you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if someone has taken it in their mouth, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
If you are taking medication for another condition, this may interact with that medication. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines). Be sure to inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications.
- Medicines that prevent blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin)
- Some medications for diabetes
- Medicines to take for Gout
- Methotrexate (a medicine used to treat cancer and other diseases)
- Pyrazinamide (a medicine for tuberculosis)
- Types of steroids (e.g. Prednisone, Cortisone)
- Medications that change the acidity of urine
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
- If symptoms do not improve: If your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse, tell your doctor.
- Be careful with the sun: This medication may make your skin a little more sensitive to the sun. So be careful with the sun as much as possible. If you go out, wear clothes that cover your skin, and use sunscreen .
- Watch out for dangerous symptoms: There is a risk of side effects when using this medicine on large areas of skin, especially in children under 12 years of age and people with kidney or liver disease.
If you experience any of the following symptoms , stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor:
Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, unusual tiredness, rapid or difficult breathing, diarrhea, or confusion.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| |
| Minor side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
|
How should I store the medicine?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children . It is best to keep it at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Do not freeze. Throw away any leftovers after the expiration date.
Take-Home Message
- Salicylic Acid is a topical medication used to remove thickened skin, such as warts and corns.
- If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or other chronic illnesses, be sure to consult a doctor before using this medicine.
- Never use this medicine on injured, broken, or infected skin.
- If you experience a severe allergic reaction (skin swelling, difficulty breathing) or symptoms of poisoning (dizziness, vomiting) while using the medicine, stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
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