Lanolin alcohols

• BPWool Alcohols
• Ph. Eur.Wool Alcohols
• USP–NFLanolin Alcohols

Alcoholes adipis lanae; Argowax; Hartolan; wool alcohols; wool wax alcohols

Lanolin alcohols (mixture of sterols and higher aliphatic alcohols obtained from wool fat) · [8027-33-6]

Polymer, mixture or material of variable composition — no single molecular formula applies.

Semi-solid base, emollient, Surfactant, emulsifier

Typical concentrations: — · Dosage forms: Semi-solid

A water-in-oil emulsifying agent used in topical creams and ointments; a few per cent added to a paraffin base markedly increases its ability to take up water (for example, Wool Alcohols Ointment BP contains 6% wool alcohols). It is also an emollient and is used in cosmetics.

A hard, brittle, golden-brown waxy solid with a faint characteristic odour that becomes plastic when warmed. It is a crude mixture of sterols and higher aliphatic alcohols; the pharmacopoeias require a cholesterol content of not less than 30%.

Cholesterol content

not less than 30%

Melting point

melts at about 56 °C or above

Solubility

practically insoluble in water; freely soluble in chloroform, ether and light petroleum; slightly soluble in ethanol (90%)

Function

water-in-oil emulsifier; low HLB

May oxidise on storage; an antioxidant such as BHT may be added. Store in a well-filled, airtight, light-resistant container in a cool place.

Incompatibilities with coal tar, ichthammol, phenol and resorcinol have been reported.

Obtained by saponification of wool fat (wool grease) and separation of the alcohol fraction from the fatty acid soaps, followed by purification.

Generally non-toxic, but lanolin alcohols are recognised skin sensitisers and are thought to be the main cause of allergic reactions to lanolin products.

Observe normal precautions for the quantity handled. Eye protection and gloves are recommended.

Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredient Database (topical preparations) and in non-parenteral medicines licensed in Europe.

Cholesterol; hydrous lanolin; lanolin; acetylated lanolin alcohols.

Because lanolin alcohols are a common cause of contact allergy, their presence should be stated on the label in many markets, and alternatives may be needed for sensitised patients.