Description
Bells Magnesium Sulphate Paste 50g (Magnesium Sulphate Paste B.P.) is a topical drawing ointment used as an adjunct in the management of minor superficial skin infections, including boils, carbuncles, abscesses and infected wounds. The paste contains dried magnesium sulphate and phenol in a soft glycerol-based base, which creates an osmotic effect that draws pus and fluid from the affected area, helping to dry out infection, reduce swelling, relieve discomfort and promote healing. It is suitable for adults and children and is intended for use on the skin only.
Bnefits
- Topical drawing paste for minor superficial skin infections such as boils, carbuncles and small abscesses.
- Dried magnesium sulphate produces an osmotic effect that helps draw out pus, fluid and impurities from infected areas.
- Helps reduce local swelling, redness and inflammation, easing associated pain and discomfort.
- Phenol provides additional antiseptic and soothing action at the site of application.
- Soft glycerol-based paste is easy to spread and remains in place under a dressing for prolonged contact.
- Useful in assisting the removal of splinters and other superficial foreign bodies by softening and drawing the area.
- Suitable for adults and children when used as directed, making it a useful first-aid cabinet medicine.
- Supplied in a compact 50 g pot, convenient for home, travel or first-aid kits.
Indications
- Adjunctive management of minor superficial skin infections, including boils and carbuncles.
- Localised infected skin lesions where drawing of pus or fluid is required (e.g. small abscesses).
- Assisting in the removal of superficial splinters or foreign bodies by softening the surrounding skin and drawing.
- Relief of local inflammation, swelling and discomfort associated with the above minor skin conditions.
Composition
- Dried Magnesium Sulphate (Epsom salt) 47.76% w/w – active drawing agent producing an osmotic effect.
- Phenol 0.49% w/w – provides local antiseptic and soothing properties.
- Glycerol (E422) – humectant and vehicle forming the soft paste base.
- Sodium chloride – excipient contributing to tonicity and paste characteristics.
- Purified water – solvent for the aqueous phase of the paste.
Packaging
- 50 g white plastic jar with screw cap containing Bells Magnesium Sulphate Paste BP.
- Jar labelled with product name, strength, active ingredients, directions for use, batch number and expiry date.
- Supplied as a single 50 g retail pack; trade outers may contain multiple jars for pharmacy/wholesale supply.
- Pack size commonly referenced in pharmacy systems as 50 g, GSL (General Sales List) medicine.
Usage
- For external use on the skin only.
- Stir the paste well before each use to ensure uniform consistency.
- Clean and dry the affected area of skin.
- Apply a generous layer of paste directly to the affected area (e.g. boil, carbuncle or site of splinter).
- Cover the treated area with a clean, dry dressing or gauze to keep the paste in place.
- Leave in position for several hours or overnight (commonly 8–12 hours) to allow the drawing action to occur.
- Remove the dressing, gently cleanse the area and reapply fresh paste and dressing as necessary until the condition improves.
- Wash hands thoroughly after application.
- If symptoms do not improve, worsen or if repeated applications are needed regularly, seek medical advice.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity or allergy to magnesium sulphate, phenol, glycerol or any of the other ingredients in the paste.
- Not for use on large areas of broken skin, severe infections or deep wounds without medical supervision.
- Not for ophthalmic (eye), oral, mucosal or internal use.
- Use with caution in very young children; always follow label age guidance and seek medical advice if unsure.
- Do not use if the skin is severely damaged, extensively eczematous or if there are signs of systemic infection (e.g. fever) without medical assessment.
Adverse Effects
- Mild local skin irritation, redness, burning or stinging at the application site.
- Dryness or cracking of skin with prolonged or repeated use.
- Allergic contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity reactions, which may present as rash, itching or swelling; discontinue use and seek medical advice if these occur.
- Very rare risk of phenol-related irritation in sensitive individuals if applied to large or damaged areas of skin.
Storage Conditions
- Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
- Keep the jar tightly closed when not in use to prevent drying out of the paste.
- Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging; return unused or expired medicine to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
Duration
Used intermittently for short periods (typically 1\u20133 days, with dressings left on for 8\u201312 hours at a time) until the boil or minor infection has drained and improved. Prolonged or repeated use beyond a few days should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.
Onset
Local drawing and softening effects start during the first application period (within several hours). Noticeable reduction in tension and discomfort from boils or infected lesions is often observed after 1\u20132 dressing changes, although full resolution may take several days.
