Benzoic acid + salicylic acid ointment = Whitfield's ointment

Therapeutic action

Fungistatic and keratolytic agent.

Indications

• Dermatophyte infection of the scalp (tinea capitis), in combination with a systemic antifungal.
• Dermatophyte infection of the glabrous skin and skin folds, alone if lesions are localized and non-extensive.
• Dermatophyte infection of the glabrous skin and skin folds, in combination with a systemic antifungal if lesions are extensive.

Forms and strengths

Benzoic acid 6% plus salicylic acid 3% ointment, tube or jar.

Dose

Child and adult: one application 2 times daily, in a thin layer, to clean and dry skin.

Duration

3 to 6 weeks, depending on clinical response.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

• Do not apply to exudative lesions, mucous membranes, or eyes.
• May cause skin irritation and local benign inflammation.
• In case of secondary bacterial infection, start appropriate local or systemic treatment before applying Whitfield's ointment.
• In case of contact with eyes or mucous membranes, flush immediately with plenty of water.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: no contra-indication.
• Whitfield's ointment is not included in the WHO list of essential medicines.
• Once the ointment has been exposed to a high temperature, the active ingredients are no longer evenly distributed: the ointment must be homogenized before use.