Piroctone olamine

Piroctone olamine (INN; also known as piroctone ethanolamine; brand name Octopirox) is a compound sometimes used in the treatment of fungal infections.Piroctone olamine is the ethanolamine salt of the hydroxamic acid derivative piroctone.

White or slightly yellow crystalline powder.

Freely soluble in 10% ethanol in water; soluble in solution containing surfactants in water or in 1%-10% ethanol; slightly soluble in water and in oil. The solubility in water varies by pH value, and is a litter larger in neutral or weak basic solution than in acid solution.

Acute toxicity : Acute oral LD50 –rat 8100mg/kg, practically nontoxic.

Subchronic toxicity : NOEL: 100mg//kg/d (rat, orally, 3 months).

Chronic toxicity and carcinogencity : Negative.

Mutagenicity : Negative.

Irritation to skin and eye : Very low.

Piroctone Olamine is an anti-dandruff agent used in shampoo formulations.

ChEBI: An organoammonium salt that is the ethanolamine salt of piroctone.

Octopirox (Hoechst AG, Germany).

Piroctone Olamine is a popular ingredient in hair care products that treat dandruff and other scalp conditions. Controls dandruff: Piroctone Olamine is effective at controlling the growth of Malassezia, a yeast that can contribute to dandruff and other scalp issues. By controlling the growth of this yeast, Piroctone Olamine can help to reduce or eliminate dandruff. Soothes the scalp: Piroctone Olamine has moisturizing properties that can help to soothe and hydrate the scalp. This can help prevent dryness, flakiness, and itching, common symptoms of dandruff and other scalp conditions. Safe for coloured hair: Piroctone Olamine is safe for use on coloured hair and will not cause fading or strip colour. Prevents fungal growth: Piroctone Olamine not only controls the growth of Malassezia, but it also prevents the growth of other fungi that can cause scalp problems. Long-lasting effect: Piroctone Olamine has been shown to have a longer-lasting effect than some other dandruff-fighting ingredients, meaning you may be able to go longer between washes. Gentle on the scalp: Piroctone Olamine is gentle on the scalp, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Piroctone olamine, also known as Octopirox, is an antifungal and antibacterial agent commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. It works by inhibiting the growth of various microorganisms, including yeasts and fungi, by disrupting their cell membranes and interfering with their metabolism. Specifically, piroctone olamine targets the enzymes responsible for synthesizing the cell membrane of microorganisms, inhibiting their growth and causing their eventual death. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and itching on the scalp and skin.

Piroctone olamine has both antifungal and antioxidant properties. It has been reported to be as effective as other antidandruff products at concentrations of 0.5–1% and is considered less toxic than zinc pyrithione when accidentally swallowed. Piroctone olamine products can be used by all patients and at any age. Like zinc pyrithione, they should be used daily. Because of their reduced toxicity, they may be preferred if used around small children.

It should be kept in mind that shampoos with Piroctone Olamine should not be used more than twice a week, unlike other daily-use shampoos that don't have this ingredient. One of the biggest side effects of Piroctone Olamine is that it can cause irritation and itchiness on the head.

[1] Newby, D., Rutter, P. (2015). Community Pharmacy ANZ - EBook: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment. United States: Elsevier.
[2] Youn, H. J., Kim, S. Y., Park, M., Jung, W. H., Lee, Y. W., Choe, Y. B., & Ahn, K. J. (2016). Efficacy and Safety of Cream Containing Climbazole/Piroctone Olamine for Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Single-Center, Open-Label Split-Face Clinical Study. Annals of dermatology, 28(6), 733–739. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2016.28.6.733
[3] Lodén, M., & Wessman, C. (2000). The antidandruff efficacy of a shampoo containing piroctone olamine and salicylic acid in comparison to that of a zinc pyrithione shampoo. International journal of cosmetic science, 22(4), 285–289. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1467-2494.2000.00024.x