Products
Ammonium bituminosulfonate is commercially available in many countries in the form of ointments (e.g., Ichtholan, Leucene). It is the typical ingredient of the so-called traction ointments. Ammonium bituminosulfonate used to be frequently used for the preparation of dermatological magistral formulations. It is also known under the names ichthammol or ichthyol. Medicinally, ammonium bituminosulfonate has been used since the 19th century.
Structure and properties
Ammonium bituminosulfonate is the ammonium salt of a sulfonated shale oil. It is obtained by dry distillation from oil shale containing kerogen, followed by sulfonation of the distillate and neutralization of the product with ammonia. Oil shale is a sedimentary rock that is mined, for example, near Seefeld in the Tyrol region of Austria. Ammonium bituminosulfonate is a complex mixture of substances containing, among other things, a high sulfur content. Other constituents include hydrocarbons, ammonium sulfate and sulfonated thiophene derivatives. Ammonium bituminosulfonate exists as a viscous, black-brown liquid with a typical odor, which is miscible with water and soluble in ethanol 96%. Ointments can be mixed on the basis of wool wax or vaseline, for example.
Effects
Ammonium bituminosulfonate (ATC D08AX10) is believed to have anti-inflammatory (inflammation modulating), antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, antipruritic, analgesic, and skin softening properties. It is said to accelerate the maturation of the disease focus and allow the pus to break through to the outside. On the other hand, it is unlikely that a traction ointment can be used to pull small wood splinters, biting tools or thorns out of the skin. Ammonium bituminosulfonate, however, counteracts infection and inflammation.
Indications
For the treatment of abscesses, boils, carbuncles, in acne and in circulation. Ammonium bituminosulfonate is used in various other skin diseases (e.g., psoriasis, eczema).
Dosage
According to the package insert. The ointments are applied locally and covered with a bandage or plaster.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Pregnancy and lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Ammonium bituminosulfonate may promote absorption of other active ingredients into the skin.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects rarely include local skin reactions such as itching, redness, burning, and blistering. Ammonium bituminosulfonate, unlike coal tar, contains much less polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and is not carcinogenic or photosensitizing. The drugs may leave stains on clothing. The stains should first be treated with an organic solvent such as stain benzine and then with a detergent.
