It's no secret that pharmaceuticals that are practically not in demand in the West are extremely popular in our country - Corvalol, Zelenka, Mucaltin, etc. Why is this happening? – It is difficult to give a definite answer to this question, due to its versatility.
Today’s material is dedicated to one of these medications – solcoseryl. To be more precise, in the article we will try to answer a question that is relevant for many patients: which is better - solcoseryl ointment or gel, what is the difference between these 2 forms, and how to use the medicine correctly.
Description of the drug
Solcoseryl is a universal drug that promotes restoration, regeneration and improvement of metabolism in tissues. Any of the dosage forms of the drug contains a dialysate obtained from the blood of dairy calves. To collect dialysate, blood is collected from exclusively milk-fed calves.
The drug is used in medicine and cosmetology. Solcoseryl is included in many cosmetic products that help smooth out wrinkles and make the skin smoother and more elastic. At the same time, independent use of Solcoseryl for cosmetic purposes is unsafe and can lead to allergic reactions, burning of the skin and damage.
Action
The main therapeutic properties of the drug are:
- Activation of reparative and regenerative processes in tissues.
- Strengthening the synthesis of collagen fibers.
- Stimulates the division and growth of healthy skin cells.
- Elimination of oxygen starvation of the skin.
- Ensuring the successful process of transporting oxygen to tissues and cells affected by hypoxia.
- Activation of cellular respiration (anaerobic metabolism).
- Restoration of blood vessels that have suffered from disturbances in the blood supply.
- Restoration of wound surfaces.
- Acceleration of skin healing.
Thus, the effect of Solcoseryl is complex, due to which the indications for its use are quite diverse. The drug quickly penetrates the tissue and has a noticeable effect from the first days of use.
Reviews from doctors about Solcoseryl ointment and gel
Valentina, gynecologist, 45 years old
I prescribe it for young mothers to heal cracked nipples. This is due to the composition of the drug. It contains substances that improve metabolic processes in tissues and accelerate their recovery.
In addition, this remedy is used in gynecology for cauterization of condylomas and for diathermocoagulation.
Dmitry, surgeon, 34 years old
I am prescribing the drug because it is considered effective in combating various skin lesions. The product is convenient to use, in addition, it has a low price, and there are practically no contraindications.
15% of the world's population experience anal pain when visiting the toilet. Ointment for cracks in the anus will help get rid of unpleasant symptoms. Because this disease needs to be treated with medication. In pharmacology, quite a lot of effective agents are recommended, such as “Methyluracil” or “Bezornil”, but choosing effective healing and painkillers is not an easy task. First of all, you need to contact a proctologist for a general examination and rectoscopy. After which drugs are prescribed to heal the cracks.
Release form
Solcoseryl is produced in several dosage forms, which allows it to be used more effectively and in a variety of ways for external use.
- Solcoseryl ointment in a 20 g tube. It has a fatty structure. Lays on the skin softly. The ointment comes with a cardboard box and instructions for using the drug.
- Solcoseryl gel or paste in an aluminum tube 20 g. It has a jelly-like structure, which makes it easy to spread a drop of gel over the skin without causing discomfort. The kit also includes instructions for use and a cardboard box.
- Solcoseryl eye gel in an aluminum tube 5 g. Used to treat mechanically damaged eye mucosa. Includes cardboard box and instructions.
Photo: Solcoseryl gel - instructions for use
Compound
Solcoseryl ointment and gel contain the following active ingredients and additional substances per 1 g of the drug:
The active component is Solcoseryl (deproteinized dialysate based on the blood of dairy calves). The amount of active substance converted into dry matter is 4.15 mg/g and 2.07 mg/g.
The excipients contained in Solcoseryl ointment are as follows:
- cholesterol;
- propyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- cetyl alcohol;
- methyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- water for injections;
- white Vaseline.
The excipients contained in Solcoseryl gel are as follows:
- methyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- carmellose sodium;
- calcium lactate pentahydrate;
- propyl parahydroxybenzoate;
- propylene glycol;
- water for injections.
Solcoseryl injections may contain a number of other auxiliary components, but the main active ingredient remains the same.
Differences between ointment and gel
The active substance of the ointment and gel is the same, but the auxiliary components of the liniments are different. Both drugs differ in appearance and in their pharmacological action.
The gel has a thick jelly-like consistency and is colorless (transparent). The pharmaceutical product in the form of a gel is used at the first stage of treatment of wounds and ulcers. It is applied to a fresh wound surface. The drug is used for weeping wounds with exudate discharge.
The ointment is characterized by a white or yellowish tint and a greasy composition. Liniment should be used when the wound has stopped oozing and has dried out. An ointment or cream forms a thin film on the wound surface, which helps moisturize and nourish damaged skin and tissue. Restores the affected area by stimulating collagen synthesis. Both forms of the drug have an odor reminiscent of meat broth.
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Indications
The use of Solcoseryl in the form of an ointment or gel is indicated in the following cases:
- Minor, low-risk damage to the skin: cuts, abrasions, scratches.
- Frostbite of varying degrees.
- Burns of 1st and 2nd degree of complexity (thermal and sunburn).
- Complex skin lesions that heal poorly: bedsores, trophic ulcers, etc.
In cases where the patient suffers from trophic tissue lesions, the use of Solcoseryl is possible only after removal of necrotic tissue from the wounds.
Photo: Solcoseryl for wounds
Solcoseryl is primarily used to treat dry wounds. The medication can also be used in the treatment of fresh wounds and ulcers with weeping symptoms.
Characteristics of Solcoseryl
Solcoseryl gel has a dense consistency and transparent color. The ointment is produced in the form of a homogeneous fatty mass of white or yellow color. Thanks to this consistency, it spreads easily over the skin.
Both products effectively cope with skin problems such as bedsores, trophic ulcers, severe cuts, moderate and minor abrasions. The product is indicated for sun and thermal burns of the 1st and 2nd degrees, as well as for mild frostbite.
The method of application for ointment and gel is similar. The product is applied to the affected areas up to 2 times a day. The therapeutic effect of the drug is based on one active substance (deproteinized dialysate) and auxiliary components.
Dosage and Application
The drug is prescribed locally. Complex therapy is also often carried out, which involves combining the ointment with intravenous injections of Solcoseryl. Injections are canceled immediately after the start of epithelization - the process of beginning restoration of the skin or mucous membrane. In this case, therapy with Solcoseryl ointment or gel continues.
If the wound tends to repeat the process, patients are prescribed continued therapy after epithelialization. The duration of use of the ointment or gel after the skin begins to recover is usually 2-3 weeks.
Gel or ointment is applied to the surface of the wound. Before application, the surface of the wound must be treated with an antiseptic.
The gel is applied to fresh wounds up to 3 times a day. Apply the ointment evenly in a thin layer over the entire surface of the wound. Some doctors recommend covering the lubricated surface with a sterile bandage. Fresh wounds should never be bandaged.
Depending on the nature of the skin lesion, the dosage of the ointment may be different. The course of therapy should last until the skin is completely healed.
Instructions for use
In accordance with the instructions for use, solcoseryl ointment and gel are applied only externally in small quantities with an even distribution over the affected area. The gel composition is usually used immediately after injury to the skin, when exudate is released from the damaged capillaries. Ointment is a more effective remedy at the stage of wound epithelization (including for rapid healing of cracks).
Solcoseryl ointment is applied to the affected area in a thin layer 1 to 3 times a day. Instructions for use:
- The wound is carefully treated with an antiseptic.
- The drug is applied to the surface of the affected area.
- To treat a small area of skin, 1 to 2 g of medication is sufficient.
- The composition is evenly distributed over the affected area without further rubbing.
- The procedure is repeated 2 to 3 times a day.
In case of severe lesions, medicinal applications are allowed; if the problem is localized in the facial area, a mask is applied at night. The main advantage of the ointment is the uniform and prompt restoration of the integrity of the skin, without drying out the tissues. No scars are formed at the treatment site.
Indications and contraindications
Solcoseryl ointment and gel are prescribed for the treatment of wounds, restoration and rapid healing of affected areas, and prevention of necrosis. The drug is actively used in complex therapy for severe tissue pathologies.
Indications for prescribing the drug:
- superficial violation of the integrity of the epidermis;
- dry calluses;
- psoriasis;
- fissures in the anus, inflammation of hemorrhoids (in the treatment of hemorrhoids);
- post-acne;
- dermatitis;
- dryness or damage to the nasal mucosa;
- bedsores;
- ulcers.
In some cases, the therapeutic regimen is supplemented with solcoseryl gel (for diseases of the lungs, nasopharynx and throat).
Contraindications:
In accordance with the official data presented in the annotation for the medication, solksoeril does not cause allergic reactions. However, it is contraindicated for use in case of individual intolerance to any ingredient, as well as in case of hypersensitivity of the body to the components of the composition. It is important for pregnant women to consult a doctor first.
Directions for use and doses
Before using the medication, it is necessary to establish the etiology of the disease. Depending on the severity of the pathological process, the doctor prescribes solcoseryl gel or ointment, a suitable dosage and frequency of use of the medicine.
Recommended dosages and methods of applying the medication:
- Thermal skin lesions (grades 2 and 3) - a gel is prescribed at the initial stage. They treat the affected areas up to 3 times a day. The dosage is determined individually. The positive dynamics of therapy is indicated by the formation of a pink layer of skin on the problem area of the skin. At the epithelization stage, the ointment is applied once a day until the wound is completely healed.
- Diabetic foot - an area with a pathological process is treated up to 2 times a day. Duration of therapy is from 1 to 1.5 months.
- Bedsores and trophic ulcers - gel is applied to the pathogenic area, and ointment is applied to the edges. The procedure is carried out 2 times daily. The duration of treatment is 21 days.
- Sunburn - ointment and gel are applied up to 2 times a day. Treatment lasts up to 30 days.
- Scratches and shallow cuts - apply gel to a fresh wound 2 times a day. After epithelization - ointment. Therapy is continued until the integrity of the skin is completely restored.
In dentistry, dental solcoseryl is actively used in the form of a paste. It is used only as prescribed by a doctor. The medication has pronounced analgesic properties. After application to the surface of the mucous membrane or gums, it forms a thin film, which protects the surface from the penetration of potentially unsafe substances.
Side effects and special instructions
It is not recommended to use solcoseryl gel for the face, since it is characterized by an active and direct effect in the area of application. For cosmetic purposes, ointments are preferred because they provide a prolonged effect.
The drug in question does not cause side effects. In case of individual intolerance to the components of the composition, allergic reactions may occur in the form of burning, itching or redness. External manifestations disappear after 10-20 minutes and do not require treatment.
Special instructions:
- The drug is used with caution when using ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and potassium drugs.
- It is important to seek medical attention if side effects occur. The doctor should reconsider the therapeutic regimen.
- The shelf life of the medicine is up to 5 years in a sealed state.
Prescription and withdrawal of a pharmaceutical drug is carried out only by the attending physician. Self-medication can aggravate the course of the disease and cause associated complications.
Side effects
The drug almost never causes side effects. Solcoseryl is tolerated very well by patients, as it has a natural composition and a minimum of additional components.
Some patients who suffer from hypersensitivity may experience the following side effects:
- Itching of the skin at or around the site where the gel or ointment was applied.
- Skin hyperemia.
- Hives.
- Regional type of dermatitis.
- Burning of the skin at the site of application.
- Swelling of tissues.
In rare cases, some patients note a change in taste.
If side effects from the use of the drug are detected, patients should urgently seek medical help. The doctor stops the course of Solcoseryl and prescribes symptomatic therapy for the resulting adverse conditions in the patient’s body.
Overdose
There is no evidence of an overdose of Solcoseryl.
Which is better: Solcoseryl ointment or gel
The gel form is most effective in the treatment of trophic ulcers and wounds that do not heal for a long time, for example, diabetic foot. Helps fight wounds that scar poorly, such as bedsores, thermal or chemical burns. The gel is applied until the top layer of the wound begins to dry out and heal. As long as there is purulent discharge in the wound, the use of the gel does not stop.
The ointment has a positive effect on metabolic processes in cells (saturates them with oxygen), accelerates recovery processes, and improves blood circulation in the affected areas. Under its influence, wounds heal faster and almost no scars form. To get this effect, you must start using the ointment after the top layer has healed and do not stop treatment until complete recovery.
Under the influence of the ointment, wounds heal faster and almost no scars form.
For face
The ointment is used in cosmetology. Cetyl alcohol, which is part of it, is a derivative of coconut oil, which is often used in various cosmetics. Vaseline has a softening effect.
The product is recommended to replace face creams or add to facial skin care masks. It is mixed with nourishing cream in a 1:1 ratio and applied at night 2 times a week. It has a beneficial effect on the skin, stimulates the regeneration and renewal of skin cells, normalizes pH levels, improves microcirculation, and eliminates signs of fatigue and aging. The ointment is most effective as a lip balm.
It is not recommended to use gel as a cosmetic product, since it is distinguished by its active action directly at the site of application.
For wrinkles
The ointment is often used to combat wrinkles. This is explained by its ability to activate the process of regeneration and renewal. The active component of the product helps improve blood circulation. Regular use of the ointment allows you not only to get rid of wrinkles, but also to improve the condition of the skin and tighten the facial contour by activating collagen production.
The ointment is often used to combat wrinkles.
In dentistry
Some diseases cause the formation of wounds and poorly healing ulcers in the oral cavity. In this situation, Solcoseryl gel for gums is used. It accelerates the restoration of mucous membranes, saturates tissues with oxygen and nutrients, relieves swelling, and heals damage. The active components of the gel activate the production of collagen in the soft tissues of the gums. After its use, the gums become stronger and less responsive to temperature changes.
The drug is used for:
- aphthous stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease and periodontitis;
- damage to the mucous membrane after wearing dentures;
- ulcers after candidiasis;
- burns resulting from exposure to hot food or chemical compounds;
- processing of sutures after surgery.
Into the nose
Prescribed for dry nasal mucosa. Heals wounds and cracks, softens the mucous membrane, forming a protective film on its surface.
special instructions
Solcoseryl is prescribed with extreme caution in cases where the patient simultaneously uses drugs that increase the level of calcium in the blood. These include:
- potassium preparations;
- potassium-sparing diuretics;
- ACE inhibitors.
The drug cannot be mixed with some phytoextracts.
If the use of Solcoseryl does not give a visible effect after 2-3 weeks, therapy should be stopped and urgently consult a doctor to adjust the course of treatment.
When using Solcoseryl eye ointment, driving is not recommended.
Photo: Solcoseryl eye gel (instructions and use)
When using Solcoseryl and drinking alcohol, longer healing of wounds and other skin lesions is possible.
Solcoseryl does not contain additional antimicrobial components. This determines the need for preliminary disinfection of the wound. Only after such a procedure can you proceed to applying an ointment or gel. Otherwise, multiple complications of the healing process may occur:
- suppuration;
- tissue necrosis;
- infection;
- inflammation.
Solcoseryl during pregnancy
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the drug is almost never prescribed to patients. This is explained by the rather high danger of using an ointment or gel on your own. If the medication was nevertheless prescribed, then patients should use it only under the strict supervision of the attending physician.
If Solcoseryl is used by nursing mothers, stop breastfeeding and transfer the child to formula. The treatment also takes place under the supervision of a doctor.
For children
The use of Solcoseryl by children and adolescents under 18 years of age is considered unacceptable due to the lack of clinical data on the safety of the drug. Since the drug can be dangerous to the health of patients, in case of urgent need, treatment under the age of 18 should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor.
Indications for use
In addition to other diseases, Solcoseryl is used to treat external and internal hemorrhoids at different stages. At the beginning of the disease, it is prescribed as an independent remedy, and the effect of therapy will be faster. The main thing is to pay attention to the development of the first symptoms in time and begin treatment.
Symptoms that indicate inflammation of hemorrhoids:
- pain in the anus, which becomes more pronounced during bowel movements;
- a feeling of enlarged nodes, the effect of the presence of a foreign object in the rectum;
- disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, frequent constipation;
- thinning of the walls of hemorrhoidal veins, anal bleeding.
Over time, the disease may worsen. Anal fissures appear, which cause pain and discomfort. The nodes continue to increase in size, and with internal hemorrhoids they may fall out. The most serious complication for the patient is the entry of pathogenic microbes into the bloodstream and the development of sepsis (blood poisoning).
In the final stages, the nodes are removed surgically, since drug therapy can no longer produce results. During the rehabilitation period, Solcoseryl is used to speed up the healing processes of postoperative wounds and restoration of the mucous membrane. It is also useful for normalizing blood circulation and preventing relapses of the disease.
Solcoseryl in cosmetology
Solcoseryl is very often included in skin care cosmetics. The effect of using masks based on Solcoseryl is expressed in the following actions:
- has a rejuvenating effect;
- eliminates signs of aging and fatigue;
- evens out skin color;
- smoothes out wrinkles.
Before starting to use Solcoseryl, a special skin sensitivity test is performed. In this case, the gel or ointment is applied to the elbow. After a day, the application site should not show signs of an allergic reaction - redness, irritation, swelling. There should be no burning or itching.
Solcoseryl gel in the fight against wrinkles
In addition to its wound-healing properties, solcoseryl is repeatedly used by women to eliminate wrinkles. Using the gel to improve skin texture, patients noted a clear smoothing of wrinkles and external freshness of the skin, hydration, and a healthy appearance. With prolonged application of the gel, it was possible to get rid of small wrinkles, and the more significant ones did not look too noticeable. There is nothing predetermined about this, because solcoseryl is made from natural biological components and does not contain proteins or chemicals. Its components are close to the cells of the human body.
The effect of skin rejuvenation is achieved by accelerating cellular regeneration processes, due to which collagen fibers are formed and the nutrition of blood vessels in the tissues is improved, which leads to an influx of oxygen to the cells. And this is very important for nourishing the skin.
It is recommended to use solcoseryl gel when fighting wrinkles no more than 2 times a month, so as not to oversaturate the skin. Gel-based masks can be left on for several hours.
Before applying the mask, it is better
to test its contents on a small area of skin.
If redness or other undesirable reaction occurs, it is better to stop using solcoseryl, which is aimed at combating wrinkles. To enhance the effect of applying solcoseryl gel to the face , you can add vitamins A and E and vegetable oils in small quantities to the contents. It is also a good idea to combine the gel with dimexide. This drug is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10. The skin is steamed before applying dimexide. Then wipe with the prepared solution. After which solcoseryl gel is applied for 1–2 hours.
If the skin is covered with acne, then you should not steam the skin. You can simply remove any remaining fat using a mattifying toner.
Feedback from women about using a mask with solcoseryl anti-wrinkle gel is simply wonderful. Many experienced a clear transformation and disappearance of fine wrinkles. There are positive reviews of using the same mask against hair loss. It is applied every other day for 1 hour before washing your hair.
Conditions and shelf life
The drug must be stored out of the reach of children and animals at a temperature not exceeding +30°C. If Solcoseryl is frozen or excessively heated, the properties of the drug may deteriorate and its effectiveness may be lost.
The drug is dispensed from the pharmacy without a prescription. The medication should be stored only in the original tube, without using other containers.
The shelf life of the drug is 5 years from the date of manufacture. After the expiration date, Solcoseryl should not be used. Otherwise, it can lead to many complications and allergic reactions.
Analogs
Solcoseryl has no absolute analogues. None of the drugs existing today contain the same active substance as Solcoseryl. Only a number of drugs that can have a similar therapeutic effect as Solcoseryl can be considered analogues. Among them are especially distinguished:
- Actovegin;
- Curiosin;
- Eplan;
- Tykveol;
- Bepanten;
- Aloe extract;
- Apilak;
- Rosehip oil;
- Phytostimulin.
Only a doctor can choose the appropriate remedy. Self-selection of medication is dangerous to health. The doctor will select the most optimal ointment or gel, taking into account all the specific characteristics of the patient.