SMTL Dressings Datacard

Description

Icthopaste consists of an open-wove bleached cotton bandage impregnated evenly with a paste consisting of 6% Zinc Oxide BP and 2% Ichthammol BP, together with Glycerin BP, Gelatin, Cyclonette Wax and Phenoxyethanol BP.

The bandage is beige in colour and supplied rolled ready for use.

Indications

Icthopaste is used in the management of varicose eczemas , and chronic dermatitis . It is also used in conjunction with a compression bandage for venous ulcers when a protective barrier for thin and fragile skin is required.

Contra-indications

Icthopaste should not be applied to patients known to be sensitive to one of the ingredients of the dressing. The dressing should not be applied to grossly macerated skin.

Method of use

Icthopaste should be applied to the leg in a series of loose folds rather than a continuous spiral to ensure that it cannot constrict blood flow or cause a tourniquet effect. When used in the treatment of venous leg ulcers, Icthopaste should be used in conjunction with a suitable compression bandage to aid venous return and to prevent the paste bandage from drying out. In conditions where compression is not required, Icthopaste should be covered with a non-elasticated tubular bandage to reduce drying out and to prevent the soiling of clothing.

Frequency of Change

Icthopaste may be renewed as frequently as the condition requires.

Warnings

Some patients, particularly those with leg ulcers, have skin that is easily sensitised to topical medicaments including the preservatives used in the formulation of some paste bandages. If changes occur in the appearance of skin surrounding an ulcer dressed with Icthopaste, sensitisation should be suspected. Such patients should be referred for specialist diagnosis including patch testing.

One of the functions of occlusive bandages is to increase absorption of topical medicaments. Care should therefore be taken if topical steroid preparations are used under these bandages as their absorption may be significantly increased.

Presentation

The bandage is presented wrapped in waxed paper, sealed in an air tight polythene pouch within a cardboard carton.

Storage

An expiry date is printed on each package. Icthopaste should be stored in a dry place not exceeding 25 °C.

Sizes

7.5 cm x 6 m

Icthopaste is available on Drug Tariff.

Legal Category

Pharmacy [P]

Bibliography

1. Wilson CL, et al., High incidence of contact dermatitis in leg ulcer patients - implications for management, Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 1991, 16, 250-243.

Revision Details

This datacard has been prepared from data provided by the manufacturer and/or from published literature.

URL: http://www.worldwidewounds.com/WMPRC/DataCards/HTML/icthopas.html
Last Modified: Thursday, 28-Mar-2002 10:21:51 GMT