What are Lotions and Liniments and their uses in pharmacy

Definitions of Lotions and Liniments , How are they Useful ?
How Lotions and Liniments are prepared ?

Lotions and liniments :

Lotions and liniments are meant for external use.


Lotions:

Lotions are dilute aqueous solutions or suspensions meant for external
application to the body without friction.


Lotions may be applied for local action as cooling, soothing or protective purposes.

Alcohol is some times applied included in aqueous solutions for its cooling and
soothing effect (salicylic acid lotion).


Bentonite is a good suspending agent in the preparation of lotions.

Methyl cellulose and sodium CMC localize and hold the active ingredient in
contact with the effected site and at the same time be rinsed off easily with water.


Glycerin keeps the skin moist for a considerable period of time.


The drying and cooling effect may be accentuated by adding alcohol to the formula.

Lotions may be prepared by triturating the ingredients to a smooth paste
and then adding remaining ingredients with trituration.



High speed mixers or colloid mills are used for the large scale preparation of lotions.