💧 Glycerin / Glycerol (Topical) – As per Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP)
🔹 1. Prescription / Indication:
Glycerin (also called Glycerol) is an over-the-counter (OTC) topical agent used for:
- Moisturizing dry, rough, or scaly skin
- Soothing irritated or inflamed skin
- Relieving minor burns, cuts, and abrasions
- Softening hardened skin (e.g. corns, calluses)
- Part of emollient formulations or medicated creams/lotions
🔹 2. Description:
- Form: Clear, colorless, viscous liquid
- Taste: Sweet
- Odor: Odorless
- Nature: Hydrophilic, hygroscopic (attracts moisture from air)
- IP Grade: Glycerin conforms to Indian Pharmacopoeia specifications
🔹 3. Composition (IP Grade):
| Ingredient | Concentration | Remarks |
|---|
| Glycerol | 98%–101% w/w | As per IP standards, minimum 98% purity |
🔹 4. Advantages:
- Excellent skin hydrator (humectant)
- Non-irritating, safe for all skin types, including babies
- Used in dermatology, cosmetics, oral care, and wound healing
- Compatible with most creams, ointments, and solutions
🔹 5. Nature / Drug Class:
- Type: Topical emollient and humectant
- Class: Moisturizer / Protectant
- Mechanism: Draws water into the outer skin layer to keep skin soft and supple
🔹 6. Common Packaging:
- Plastic or glass bottles – 100 mL, 200 mL, 500 mL
- Often labeled as:
- “Glycerin IP” or “Glycerol IP”
- “For external use only”
- May be packed with dropper, especially in pediatric formulations
🔹 7. Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Keep tightly closed to avoid contamination
- Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
- Shelf life: 2–3 years depending on packaging
🔹 8. Patient Advice / How to Use:
- Apply directly to clean, dry skin or affected area
- Use 1–3 times daily or as directed by doctor/pharmacist
- Can be diluted with water before use for sensitive skin
- For oral ulcers (if indicated), can be applied with a cotton swab
- Avoid contact with eyes or mucous membranes unless prescribed
🔹 9. Purpose / Clinical Use:
| Uses | How it helps |
|---|
| Dry skin / cracked heels | Softens and hydrates |
| Minor wounds / burns | Protects skin, promotes healing |
| Diaper rash | Soothes and forms barrier |
| Oral ulcer / mouth dryness | Coats and relieves irritation |
| Corns and calluses (with salicylic acid) | Aids in softening hardened skin |
