Lanolin acts as an emollient by preventing the water from escaping. It forms an occlusive layer over the skin that traps water inside the skin, maintaining its hydration.

Lanolin Uses:

• It is used as a skin protectant and conditioner for sore or cracked nipples due to breastfeeding. It may be applied over dried skin.

Use in Adults:

Apply topically to the affected area as required.

Use in Children:

It may be applied as a pea-sized to the affected area.

Pregnancy Risk Category: N

• It has not yet been tested in human or animal pregnancies. 
• It is recommended to be used in small amounts and for a short time.

Lanolin use during breastfeeding:

• It is safe to use with breastfeeding infants. 
• You don't need to wash the nipples again with the cream before you start breastfeeding.

Dose in Renal disease:

No dosage adjustements recommended.

Dose in liver disease:

No dosage adjustments recommended.

Side effects of Lanolin:

There are no adverse reactions listed in the manufacturer's labeling. Patients may note:

• burning, stinging, and redness if they are allergicto it.
• Breastfeeding babies whose mothers apply it over cracked nipples may develop a white, soft, and soggy tongue.
• Rarely, an infection may occur at the site.

Lanolin Contraindications and Warnings:

It is safe to use. It shouldn't be used on deep wounds, blisters or purulent skin ulcers.

Monitoring Parameters:

None mentioned.

How to administer lanolin?

• It is used as a topical cream or lotion over the skin and/ or nipples.
• Apply a small amount of the cream and rub it gently.
• When used over cracked nipples, a small amount of the cream (pea-sized) should be applied over the cracked nipple and rubbed gently.
• The nipples do not need to be washed before breastfeeding the child again.

Mechanism of action of Lanolin:

• It is a waxy substance that can be used as an emollient. 
• It forms an occlusive layer on the skin's outer surface (the stratum corneum), and prevents water loss.
• It maintains skin's hydration and softness. 
• It is usually combined with petrolatum and mineral oil as an over-the-counter cream and lotion.

International Brand Names of Lanolin:

• HPA Lanolin
• Lan-O-Soothe
• Lansinoh

Lanolin Brand Names in Pakistan:

It is not available alone. It is used in combination with other products such as mineral oil, glycerin, and petrolatum.