Latin, Adeps Lanae (Gen., Adipis Lanae)

Eng., Wool-fat. The purified fat of the wool of sheep, freed from water. Used almost exclusively in the form of the

Official Preparation.

Adeps Lanae Hydrosus (Gen., Adipis Lanae Hydrosi)

Eng., Hydrous Wool-fat. Synonym, Lanolin. The purified fat of the wool of the sheep combined with not less than 25 nor more than 30 per cent. of water.

Form

A nearly white, ointment-like mass.

Odor And Taste

Very slight odor or taste.

Solubility

Insoluble in water or alcohol.

Therapeutic Action

Emollient.

Uses

This is an excellent vehicle for ointments where absorption is desirable. It is used as a vehicle itself, but more frequently combined with other agents.

Administration

The hydrous preparation is used almost exclusively. It is particularly employed as an ointment base where absorption of the active constituents through the skin is desired. Owing to its rather sticky character it is seldom employed alone. The following illustrates its use:

In the treatment of tinea barbae:

M.

Sig

Apply thoroughly once a day.

In the treatment of eczema of the scrotum:

M.

Sig

Apply liberally several times daily.

1 Ohmann-Dumesnil: Diseases of the Skin.

2 Ibid.

In the treatment of acute bronchitis:

Sig

Apply to chest as directed.

In the treatment of dermatitis:

M.

Sig

Apply locally.