Talc (Talcum)
Generic medicine reference
Not yet clinically reviewed
This entry was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia app bundle and has not been reviewed by a named clinician on this site. It is provided for educational reference only — verify dosage and safety information against current, authoritative sources and a qualified healthcare professional before any clinical use.
Overview
Magnesium silicate (MgSiO3) when hydrated is most commonly known as "talc". In the pharmaceutical industry it is used as an anticaking agent to improve powder flow in tablet compression. Talc is used cosmetically in talcum and baby powder as an adsorbent. Talc has been reported to be used in some food products, and is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. [ 1 ]
Natural talc contains asbestos, a substance that may lead to lung cancer. However, talcum products used in cosmetics have been free of asbestos since the 1970s. [ 2 ] Some studies have reported small increases in ovarian cancer with the use of asbestos-free talcum powder, but studies are conflicting and the results are not definitive. The American Cancer Society suggests corn starch-based cosmetics might be an alternative in those concerned about talc use. [ 2 ]
Indications
Magnesium silicate (MgSiO3) when hydrated is most commonly known as "talc". In the pharmaceutical industry it is used as an anticaking agent to improve powder flow in tablet compression. Talc is used cosmetically in talcum and baby powder as an adsorbent. Talc has been reported to be used in some food products, and is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. [ 1 ]
Natural talc contains asbestos, a substance that may lead to lung cancer. However, talcum products used in cosmetics have been free of asbestos since the 1970s. [ 2 ] Some studies have reported small increases in ovarian cancer with the use of asbestos-free talcum powder, but studies are conflicting and the results are not definitive. The American Cancer Society suggests corn starch-based cosmetics might be an alternative in those concerned about talc use. [ 2 ]
Contraindications
Talc (Talcum) is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Talc (Talcum), which give rise to further complications include Tachycardia, Pulmonary edema, Myocardial infarction, Pneumonia. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Talc (Talcum) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Fever, Pain, Infection at the site of thoracostomy, Dyspnea, Hypotension.
Warnings
Talc should not be used for dusting surgical gloves. Avoid inhalation of talc because it can cause respiratory irritation.
High Risk Groups
Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, and Pregnant Mothers.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.
Adult Dosage
No adult dosage information is recorded for this medicine yet.
Child Dosage
No child dosage information is recorded for this medicine yet.
Neonatal Dosage
No neonatal dosage information is recorded for this medicine yet.
Drug Interactions
No data regarding the interactions of Talc (Talcum) was found.
Storage
Dusting powder Store Between 15°C-25°C. Protect from Sunlight and Heat.
Available Brands in Pakistan
No brands are recorded for this generic.