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BLOOD AND BLOOD FORMING ORGANS › BLOOD SUBSTITUTES AND PERFUSION SOLUTIONS › I.V. SOLUTIONS › Solutions producing osmotic diuresis
carbamide
B05BC02
Forms & Strengths
- Urea (carbamide) 10% to 30% topical creams, lotions, and ointments
- Urea 5% to 40% topical nail lacquers and gels
- Carbamide 10% ophthalmic solution
Adult Dosing
- Topical keratolytic (hyperkeratotic conditions, ichthyosis, psoriasis): Apply thin layer to affected skin 2 to 3 times daily
- Nail debridement/avulsion (fungal or dystrophic nails): Apply 40% cream under occlusive dressing daily as directed
- Ophthalmic (temporary relief of corneal edema): 1 to 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 3 to 4 hours as needed
Pediatric Dosing
- Topical (xerosis, ichthyosis): Apply thin layer to affected areas 1 to 3 times daily in children aged 2 years and older
- Ophthalmic corneal edema: Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients
Indications
- Hyposalivation and dry mouth (systemic/oral rinse formulations)
- Hyperkeratotic skin conditions including xerosis, ichthyosis, eczema, and psoriasis
- Chemical debridement and promotion of normal healing of hyperkeratotic surface lesions
- Temporary relief of corneal edema (ophthalmic formulation)
Mechanism of Action
- Acts as a humectant and keratolytic agent by softening keratin, dissolving intercellular matrix, and increasing water-binding capacity of the stratum corneum
- Ophthalmic urea exerts an osmotic gradient to draw water out of the cornea, reducing corneal thickness and edema
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to urea or any component of the formulation
- Application to infected, denuded, or severely inflamed skin
- Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes for high-concentration topical formulations
Adverse Reactions
- Local skin irritation, stinging, burning, or erythema upon application
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Transient stinging or irritation with ophthalmic use
- Maceration of skin with prolonged use or occlusive dressings
Drug Interactions
- May increase the percutaneous absorption of other topically applied drugs (e.g., corticosteroids, dithranol, 5-fluorouracil)
- No significant systemic drug interactions anticipated with topical or ophthalmic administration
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use