Lanolin

Description

A purified, yellowish white, semisolid, fatlike substance extracted from the wool of sheep. It is insoluble in water, but mixes with about twice its weight of water without separation. It is soluble in chloroform and in ether.

Chemical properties

Hydrous lanolin is a pale yellow-colored, unctuous substance with a faint characteristic odor. When melted by heating on a water bath, hydrous lanolin separates into a clear oily layer and a clear water layer.

The Uses of Lanolin

lanolin USP (modified) is an emollient and an emulsifier. This is a highly purified lanolin that meets uSP monograph specifications requiring analysis for trace contaminants.

Production Methods

Lanolin is melted, and sufficient purified water is gradually added with constant stirring.

Definition

LANOLIN is a complex combination of waxes obtained from sheep's wool. It consists primarily of cholesterol and triterpene alcohols and their esters.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Hydrous lanolin is widely used in topical pharmaceutical formulations and cosmetics in applications similar to those for lanolin.
Hydrous lanolin is commonly used in the preparation of waterin- oil creams and ointments. More water may be incorporated into hydrous lanolin than into lanolin.

Safety

Hydrous lanolin is used in cosmetics and a number of topical pharmaceutical formulations and is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant material, although it has been associated with hypersensitivity reactions. See Lanolin for further information.

Storage

Hydrous lanolin should be stored in a well-filled, well-closed container protected from light, in a cool, dry place. Normal storage life is 2 years.

Regulatory Status

Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (ophthalmic, topical, transdermal, and vaginal preparations). Included in nonparenteral medicines licensed in the UK. Included in the Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.