Indications
Beta-sitosterol (β-sitosterol) is a natural plant sterol found in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds. In Bangladesh it is mainly found in soothing ointments for the skin, where it is used to:
- Help heal minor burns and scalds
- Support healing of wounds, cuts, abrasions and skin ulcers
- Soothe dry, damaged or irritated skin
Taken by mouth as a supplement, beta-sitosterol is also used to help lower cholesterol and to ease urinary symptoms of an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia).
How It Works
On the skin, beta-sitosterol is usually combined with an oily base such as sesame oil and beeswax. This keeps the wound moist, forms a protective layer and is thought to calm inflammation and support the growth of new skin. Taken by mouth, plant sterols partly block the absorption of cholesterol from the gut, and in the prostate they may reduce swelling and improve urine flow.
Dosage and Administration
Ointment: clean the area gently, then apply a thin layer (about 1 mm) to the burn or wound, usually 2 to 4 times daily or as directed on the label, so the area stays covered. A light dressing may be used. Before each new application, gently wipe off the old ointment and any discharge. Oral capsules or tablets: take as directed on the label or by your doctor.
Interactions
No important interactions are known with the ointment. When taken by mouth, beta-sitosterol may reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and carotenes and may add to the effect of cholesterol-lowering medicines such as Ezetimibe. Avoid using other creams on the same area at the same time unless advised.
Contraindications
- Allergy to beta-sitosterol, sesame oil, beeswax or any other ingredient
- Oral use: sitosterolaemia, a rare inherited disorder in which plant sterols build up in the body
Side Effects
The ointment is usually well tolerated. Possible effects include:
- Mild itching, stinging or redness where applied
- Allergic skin reaction (rare)
When taken by mouth, it may cause nausea, indigestion, wind, diarrhoea or constipation. Get urgent medical help if a burn or wound shows signs of infection (spreading redness, swelling, pus, fever) or if you have signs of a severe allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use of the ointment on small areas of skin is not expected to cause harm, but ask your doctor before using it on large areas. Oral supplements are not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding, as safety has not been established.
Precautions and Warnings
- Large, deep or electrical burns, burns on the face, hands, feet or genitals, and burns in children or the elderly need urgent medical care.
- Cool a fresh burn under clean running water for about 20 minutes before applying anything.
- For external use only (ointment); avoid the eyes.
- See a doctor if a wound does not start to heal within a week.
Overdose
Overdose from applying the ointment is unlikely. If ointment is swallowed in a small amount, it is unlikely to be harmful; seek medical advice if a large amount is swallowed or a child has eaten it.
Therapeutic Class
Plant sterol; topical wound and burn healing agent
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Close the tube tightly after use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.