Ointments
Definition These semisolid dosage forms are designed for external application to the skin or mucous membranes. Here are some key differences between creams and ointments:
- Creams: Opaque, viscous, and consistently spreadable, creams often contain more than 20% water and volatiles, along with less than 50% hydrocarbons, waxes, or polyols as the vehicle. They’re intended for external use.
- Ointments: These semisolid preparations have less than 20% water and volatiles, but more than 50% hydrocarbons, waxes, or polyols as the vehicle. Ointments are also meant for external application.
- Appearance: Creams are usually white to off-white, while ointments can be translucent and come in various colors like light yellow or white
- Nature of Formulation:Creams are water-based, whereas ointments are oil-based.
- Viscosity:Creams are thin, making them easy to spread.
o Ointments tend to be thicker and create an occlusive layer on the skin. - Spreadability:When covering a large skin surface area, creams are preferable due to their spreadability.
Ointments are better when you need to cover a smaller area but prolong the duration of action.
