Products
Eosin, from Greek , dawn, is commercially available as an aqueous solution for application to the skin.
Structure and properties
As a drug, eosin is yellowish (= eosin G, eosin Y, C20H6Br4Na2O5, Mr = 691.9 g/mol), the sodium salt of tetrabromofluorescein. It is also known as eosin disodium and as tetrabromofluorescein disodium and belongs to the triphenylmethane dyes and xanthenes. Eosin exists as a red crystalline powder that fluoresces greenish in solution and is soluble in water and ethanol. Also commercially available is eosin bluish (= eosin B), the sodium salt of the doubly nitrated dibromofluorescein.
Effects
Eosin (ATC D08AX02) is thought to have antibacterial, antifungal, keratolytic, anti-inflammatory, drying, and astringent properties. Efficacy is pH dependent. Like other age-worthy dyes, eosin is not without controversy in the literature and there is debate as to whether it should still be used today.
Indications
Eosin is approved in many countries for the adjuvant treatment of skin conditions that are simply bacterial or sensitive to superinfection, particularly diaper dermatitis in infants. Other possible uses mentioned in the literature include eczema and intertrigo. Other uses:
- As a reagent
- For bacteriological and histological staining, e.g. hematoxylin-eosin staining.
- Dye CI 45380 in cosmetics
- Dye for paper, textiles
- Dyeing watercourses
Dosage
Eosin is applied twice daily. It should not be used in children under 30 months of age without a doctor’s order, according to the professional information. Strong sunlight should be avoided during treatment, as Eosin may be photosensitizing.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Other antiseptics should not be used concomitantly.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include contact dermatitis, photosensitization, and skin rashes. The dye stains the skin, underwear, clothing, and objects red.
