Urea (10%)

Urea 10% cream is indicated for-

• Ichthyosis and dry skin conditions
• Management of eczemas
• Management of psoriasis

Topical urea is bacteriostatic, bactericidal, fungistatic, proteolytic, hygroscopic and has mild local anesthetic properties. These actions are dose dependent. Most of its therapeutic applications depend on its hygroscopic properties. The hygroscopic property is due to its ability to cause configurational change in proteins in the stratum corneum. A 10% urea cream has been shown to increase the water holding capacity of ichthyotic scale by 100% after 3 weeks of treatment. There is no information available about percutaneous absorption of urea. Therapeutic effects depend on local concentrations, not on systemic absorption of the drug. If absorbed, urea would be excreted unchanged in the urine.

Urea 10% cream is applied topically. Wash affected areas well, rinse off all traces of soap, dry and apply sparingly twice daily. Occlusive dressings may be used, but are usually unnecessary because of the self-occlusive nature of the cream.

Use in children: Urea 10% cream can be used in all age groups.

No hazardous drug interaction has been reported.

This is contraindicated in any other ingredient of this preaparation.

No serious toxicity has been reported with topical urea. Historically it is considered a safe drug. But on some occasions, topical urea has been shown to cause burning and irritation, if applied to inflamed, broken or exudative skin eruptions.

Urea cream can be used during pregnancy and lactation.

In some instances, urea 10% cream may cause local irritation and edema, when applied to sensitive skin. If the condition is aggravated or there is no improvement the doctor should be consulted. Avoid application to moist or broken skin.

Topical urea preparations.

Keep out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Keep at cool and dry place.