Ascab
Generic Name
Benzyl Benzoate
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
ascab 25 w emulsion | ৳ 12.13 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ascab 25% w/v Emulsion contains Benzyl Benzoate, an ectoparasiticide used for the treatment of scabies caused by Sarcoptes scabiei and for pediculosis (lice infestation). It acts as a neurotoxin to the parasites, causing their paralysis and death.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For scabies, apply thinly over the entire body from the neck down, leave for 24 hours, then wash off. Repeat after 7 days if necessary. For pediculosis, apply to affected areas, leave for 24 hours, then wash off.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution should be exercised on fragile or sensitive skin. Avoid prolonged application.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment needed as systemic absorption is minimal.
How to Take
For external use only. Apply to clean, dry skin, avoiding face, eyes, mouth, nose, and mucous membranes. If treating scabies, ensure all household members and close contacts are treated simultaneously. Leave on for the recommended duration (e.g., 24 hours) then wash thoroughly. Reapply if hands are washed within the 24-hour period.
Mechanism of Action
Benzyl Benzoate acts as a neurotoxin on the nervous system of mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) and lice, causing their paralysis and death. It also has a toxic effect on their eggs. The exact mechanism of neurotoxicity involves membrane disruption and interference with ion channels.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Acaricidal effect typically begins within hours of application.
Excretion
Metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine.
Half life
Due to minimal systemic absorption, a specific systemic half-life is not clinically significant for topical application. Any absorbed amount is rapidly metabolized.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption occurs when applied topically to intact skin. Absorption can be increased through damaged skin, inflammation, or prolonged exposure.
Metabolism
Any absorbed amount is rapidly hydrolyzed to benzoic acid and benzyl alcohol. These metabolites are then conjugated with glucuronic acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Benzyl Benzoate or any excipients in the formulation.
- Acute weeping dermatoses, severely inflamed or broken skin (due to increased absorption and irritation risk).
- Not recommended for children under 2 years old without medical advice.
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids
Topical corticosteroids may mask the inflammatory symptoms of scabies, leading to delayed diagnosis or prolonged use of benzyl benzoate. If corticosteroids are used, ensure diagnosis of scabies is confirmed first.
Other topical skin preparations
May alter absorption or increase skin irritation if used concomitantly. Avoid applying other creams, lotions, or ointments immediately before or after Ascab emulsion.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F). Protect from light, heat, and freezing. Keep out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate.
Overdose
Topical overdose can lead to severe local skin reactions such as burning, intense itching, redness, swelling, and blistering. If extensively absorbed (e.g., through damaged skin, in very young children), systemic toxicity may occur, including central nervous system depression, tremors, or convulsions. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; wash off the emulsion thoroughly with soap and water. Seek immediate medical attention if systemic symptoms occur.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy and lactation should be done with caution and only if clearly indicated after consulting a healthcare professional. Although systemic absorption is minimal, potential risks versus benefits should be assessed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, drugstores
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Benzyl Benzoate has been a well-established treatment for ectoparasitic infestations for decades. Its efficacy and safety are supported by extensive historical use and clinical experience, rather than recent large-scale randomized controlled trials for primary approval. Studies often focus on comparative effectiveness with newer agents or specific population groups.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine lab monitoring is required for topical use of Benzyl Benzoate emulsion.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize proper application technique and duration to patients, including thorough washing after the recommended period.
- Advise re-treatment after 7 days for scabies to target newly hatched mites that may have survived the first application as eggs.
- Educate on environmental hygiene (washing clothes, bedding, towels) and treatment of contacts to prevent re-infestation, which is crucial for successful eradication.
Patient Guidelines
- Follow the application instructions precisely, including duration and frequency of application.
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used by the infested person and close contacts in hot water (at least 60°C) or dry clean.
- Treat all close contacts simultaneously, even if asymptomatic, to prevent re-infestation.
- Avoid scratching, as it can worsen irritation and lead to secondary infections.
Missed Dose Advice
Since it's a topical treatment often applied once or twice, if a scheduled application is missed, apply it as soon as remembered. Do not apply extra to make up for a missed dose. Continue with the recommended treatment schedule.
Driving Precautions
No known effect on ability to drive or operate machinery, as it is a topical preparation with minimal systemic absorption.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good personal hygiene, including regular bathing.
- Avoid sharing personal items like clothes, towels, or bedding.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, especially areas frequently used by the infested individual. Seal non-washable items in plastic bags for at least 72 hours.
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Global Brand Names
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