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Schwabe News Volume 5 | Issue 1 | January 2014

Topi® Berberis Cream

Introduction

The tincture of Berberis aquifolium has long been used in homoeopathy for the treatment of inflammatory, scaling dermatoses (commonly called psoriasis) and affections of skin with eruptions of papules and pustules (commonly called as acne). Topi Berberis contains 10% of Berberis aquifolium MT.

Psoriasis

Is a chronic disease of the skin, which often persists life-long. The skin shows typical erythematous plaques, sometimes adherent or confluent, covered with white or silvery shiny scales usually without itching. The lesions can cover the whole body, but typically they are located on knees, elbows, head and eye brows. The cause of psoriasis is found in disturbances in the normal development of skin-forming cells. The life time of epidermal keratinocytes is shortened, leading to an increased proliferation and various histological changes in the epidermis. The aetiology of psoriasis is still not completely clarified. Meanwhile the genetic predisposition has been proven scientifically. The course of the psoriatic condition is extremely heterogeneous and both its initial eruption as well as the frequency of recurrences are generally influenced by various internal and external factors such as: anxiety or stress, metabolic and hormonal dysfunction, drugs, etc.

Acne

Acne vulgaris (common acne) is a frequently seen disorder of the sebaceous glands of the skin, which lie beside every hair follicle and produce an oily secretion called sebum.  It is usually found where sebaceous glands are most active such as on the face, neck, and upper trunk. 

Topi Berberis alleviates the symptoms and supports the healing process of psoriatic lesions and acne. It is suitable especially for the subacute and chronic phases. It can be used for stabilisation during symptom-free periods. The cream has a positive influence on other forms of dry skin diseases, e.g. dry eczemas. External factors such as anxiety or stress, metabolic and hormonal dysfunction, drugs, etc. aggravate acne.

Clinical studies with Topi Berberis for the treatment of subacute and chronic psoriasis showed it to be highly effective. In most patients the symptoms improved significantly and in some cases the psoriasis lesions disappeared completely. The overall success rate was 80% and the quality of life parameters improved during treatment. The tolerability was described as very good by the majority of patients. Therefore, it is especially suitable for long term use without side effects.

Mild to moderate acne is managed by Topi Berberis.

Indication: Dry forms of skin diseases, such as psoriasis and in acne.

Directions for use

Dosage: Unless otherwise prescribed, Topi Berberis should be applied as follows:

The cream should be used 2 – 3 times daily by applying a thin layer to properly cleaned and dried affected skin areas. The cream should be lightly massaged into the skin. Any contact with open wounds should be avoided.

Side effects: In rare cases, applying the cream might cause allergic skin reactions with redness, itching and blistering. If one of these symptoms occur, medical advice is recommended.

Contra-indications: The cream should not be used for patients with known hypersensitivity to Berberis aquifolium.

Interactions: No interactions between Topi Berberis  and other products are known.

Presentation: 25 g tubes.