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.