Ichthammolum

Ichthammolum, also called ichthammol or ammonium bituminosulfonate, is an active ingredient that has inflammation modulating, antibacterial, antifungal and emollient effects. It is mainly used as an ointment, for the treatment of abscesses, boils, in acne or nail bed inflammation. Ichthammolum is obtained from shale oils by sulfonation and neutralization with ammonia. It is a complex mixture of substances and has a high sulfur content. Ichthammol is used to treat rheumatic complaints. Ichthammolum can leave stains on clothes. These can be washed out with stain benzine and subsequent cleaning with detergent.

Ichthammolum works by reducing the sebaceous glands of the skin and decreasing the scaling of the skin. As a traction ointment, ichthammol is said to increase blood circulation and allow pus to break through.

Always take Ichthammolum exactly as described in the package leaflet or exactly as your doctor has told you.

As an ointment, Ichthammol is applied to the affected skin area and covered with an air-permeable bandage or plaster. This dressing should be changed every 1-2 days. The maximum duration of use should not exceed 5 days.

The following side effects may occur:

• allergic reaction
• intolerance reactions of the skin

Interactions may occur with simultaneous use of the following medicines:

• when used with other ointments or creams, the effect of ichthammolum may be impaired.
• Ichthammol may increase the solubility of other active substances and thus enhance their absorption through the skin

Ichthammolum must NOT be taken in the following cases:

• In case of allergy to ichthammolum or other slate oils.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, Ichthammolum should only be used after consulting your doctor, as there are no empirical reports on Ichthammol.

Ichthammolum has been used medicinally since the 19th century. The effect was discovered by the German physician Paul Gerson Unna.