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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene
Brand Name
Puritying Skin Balancecream
Generic Name
Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene
Active Ingredient
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehydeCategory
Nitrogen Binding Agent [EPC]
Variants
1
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| .00244785 g/100mL | CREAM | TOPICAL | 71217-0052 |
Detailed information about Puritying Skin Balancecream
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Puritying Skin Balancecream, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is a specialized pharmacological agent classified as both a Nitrogen Binding Agent and a Standardized Chemical Allergen. It is primarily utilized in diagnostic clinical settings to identify contact hypersensitivity and in metabolic contexts for its ammonium ion binding activity.
In the context of diagnostic allergy testing, the dosage of .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is highly standardized to ensure accuracy and safety. The standard adult dose is typically a 0.1 mg to 0.5 mg application of the substance, usually delivered via a 10% concentration in a petrolatum vehicle. This is applied to a specific area of the skin (usually the upper back) using an occlusive patch.
For experimental nitrogen-binding applications, dosages are calculated based on the patient's body surface area and the specific metabolic requirements. These doses are highly individualized and are not yet standardized for general pharmaceutical use outside of clinical trials.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is generally not recommended for use in children under the age of 6 for diagnostic purposes unless the clinical need is significant. For children aged 6 to 17, patch testing may be performed using lower concentrations (often 1% to 5%) to minimize the risk of 'angry back' syndrome or severe localized irritation. Pediatric dosing must always be adjusted by a specialist in pediatric dermatology or allergy.
While topical diagnostic use does not typically require dose adjustment for renal impairment due to low systemic absorption, systemic use (in nitrogen-binding contexts) requires careful monitoring. Patients with a Creatinine Clearance (CrCl) of less than 30 mL/min should be monitored for the accumulation of metabolites.
Because .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is metabolized by hepatic aldehyde dehydrogenases, patients with significant liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh Class B or C) may experience prolonged half-life. No specific dose reduction is mandated for topical use, but systemic applications should be approached with caution.
Elderly patients often have thinner skin (atrophic skin), which can increase the rate of absorption during patch testing. Clinicians may consider shorter occlusion times or lower concentrations to prevent excessive irritation in patients over the age of 75.
When used as a diagnostic agent:
In a diagnostic setting, a 'missed dose' usually refers to a patch that has fallen off prematurely. If the patch is removed or falls off before the 48-hour mark, the test may be invalidated. Contact your healthcare provider immediately to determine if the test needs to be restarted. Do not attempt to re-apply the patch yourself with adhesive tape.
Overdose with .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is rare due to its primary topical application. However, excessive exposure (such as accidental ingestion or application over large areas of broken skin) can lead to:
In the event of accidental ingestion, do not induce vomiting. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. For skin 'overdose' (excessive reaction), the area should be washed thoroughly with mild soap and water, and topical corticosteroids may be prescribed by a physician.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose or alter the testing protocol without medical guidance.
The most frequent side effects associated with .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde occur during its use as a diagnostic allergen. Because the purpose of the test is to elicit a reaction in sensitive individuals, these effects are often expected:
While .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is generally safe when used as directed, serious reactions can occur.
> Warning: Stop taking .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
Long-term exposure to .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde, particularly in occupational settings (such as for perfumers or cosmetic chemists), can lead to Chronic Allergic Contact Dermatitis. This condition is characterized by thickened, cracked, and 'leathery' skin (lichenification) that is prone to painful fissures. Once a patient is sensitized to .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde, the sensitivity is typically lifelong, meaning any future exposure to products containing this ingredient will trigger a skin reaction.
No FDA black box warnings are currently issued for .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde. However, it is strictly regulated in terms of its concentration in consumer products by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) to prevent widespread sensitization in the general population.
Report any unusual symptoms or severe skin reactions to your healthcare provider immediately. Documentation of these reactions is crucial for your long-term medical record.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is a potent sensitizer. Patients undergoing diagnostic testing must be aware that the test itself can occasionally induce a new allergy (active sensitization), although this is rare with standardized concentrations. It is vital that this substance is only used by trained medical professionals (allergists or dermatologists) who can distinguish between an irritant reaction and a true allergic reaction.
There are no FDA black box warnings for .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde at this time. Its use is primarily diagnostic and restricted to controlled clinical environments.
For diagnostic use, monitoring is primarily visual and clinical:
For systemic nitrogen-binding use, the following may be required:
Topical application of .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde for diagnostic purposes does not typically affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if a patient experiences a rare systemic reaction or severe discomfort/itching that causes distraction, caution is advised.
There are no known direct interactions between topical .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde and alcohol. However, alcohol consumption can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which might exacerbate itching or redness at the test site. It is generally recommended to limit alcohol during the 48-96 hour patch test window.
In diagnostic testing, 'discontinuation' involves the removal of the patch by a doctor. If a patient develops a severe reaction before the scheduled removal, the patch may be removed early. There is no 'withdrawal syndrome' associated with this agent, but the skin reaction may require treatment with topical steroids to resolve.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, including any history of severe skin reactions, with your healthcare provider before starting .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde testing.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde does not typically interfere with standard blood chemistries or hematology. However, its presence in the system (if used systemically) may interfere with certain Ammonia Assays that use enzymatic methods, as the drug's ammonium-binding activity could lead to falsely low ammonia readings.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially those that affect your immune system or skin health.
Patients who are reactive to .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde often show cross-sensitivity to:
If you have a known allergy to any of these substances, you must inform your doctor before being exposed to .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including current skin condition and immune status, before prescribing or administering .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is classified as Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with this specific compound in its clinical formulation. Because diagnostic patch testing is an elective procedure, most guidelines recommend delaying the use of .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde until the postpartum period. If use is deemed necessary for the management of severe, recalcitrant dermatitis, it should only be performed during the second or third trimester when organogenesis is complete.
It is unknown whether .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. However, given the low systemic absorption from a single diagnostic patch, the risk to a nursing infant is considered minimal. To ensure safety, the patch should never be applied to the breast or chest area where the infant's skin might come into direct contact with the allergen.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is FDA-approved for use in children as part of standardized patch test panels, typically for those aged 6 years and older. In children, the immune system is still developing, and they may be more prone to developing new sensitivities. Pediatricians often use a 'tailored' approach, using fewer patches and lower concentrations. It is not approved for use in infants or toddlers due to the high risk of skin irritation and the difficulty of maintaining patch occlusion.
Clinical studies have shown that patients over 65 may have a delayed or diminished immune response to allergens. A reaction that might appear in 48 hours in a younger patient might take 96 hours or even a week to appear in an elderly patient. Furthermore, the risk of 'tape reactions' (irritation from the adhesive) is higher in the elderly due to skin fragility. No specific dose adjustment is required, but a 'late reading' at day 7 is highly recommended.
For the standard topical diagnostic dose, no adjustments are necessary. In the event of systemic use for nitrogen binding, the dosage should be guided by the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Since the metabolites are primarily cleared by the kidneys, patients with GFR < 30 mL/min should be monitored for signs of metabolic acidosis or unusual lethargy, which could indicate metabolite accumulation.
Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) may have reduced capacity to oxidize .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde into its inactive acid form. While this is unlikely to cause issues with a single topical patch, caution is advised in patients with end-stage liver disease. Monitoring for signs of systemic sensitivity is recommended.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Always inform your specialist about your pregnancy status or any chronic organ-related health issues.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde functions via two distinct molecular pathways:
The pharmacodynamic effect of .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is time-dependent rather than immediate. In diagnostic testing, the 'onset' of the inflammatory response typically occurs 24-48 hours post-exposure. The 'duration' of the effect (the visible rash) can last from 7 to 21 days depending on the individual's T-cell memory and the effectiveness of any post-test topical treatments. Tolerance does not typically develop; rather, 'sensitization' occurs, where subsequent exposures lead to faster and more severe reactions.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | < 5% (Topical) |
| Protein Binding | 92% - 98% |
| Half-life | 4 - 8 hours |
| Tmax | 24 - 48 hours (for skin reaction) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Aldehyde Dehydrogenase) |
| Excretion | Renal (> 90% as metabolites) |
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde belongs to the class of Aromatic Aldehydes. Within the therapeutic and diagnostic landscape, it is grouped with other Nitrogen Binding Agents and Chemical Allergens. It is chemically related to Cinnamaldehyde and Amyl Cinnamal, though it is considered a more potent sensitizer in many clinical models.
Common questions about Puritying Skin Balancecream
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is primarily used as a diagnostic tool in clinical allergy testing to identify if a patient has a contact allergy to fragrances. It is a standardized component of patch tests, which help dermatologists diagnose the cause of chronic skin rashes or eczema. Additionally, it is classified as a Nitrogen Binding Agent, meaning it has the chemical ability to bind with ammonium ions in specific metabolic contexts. In the consumer world, it is a common fragrance ingredient, but its clinical use involves much higher, controlled purity levels. It is essential for patients with suspected fragrance sensitivities to be tested with this specific agent.
The most common side effects are localized to the area where the substance is applied, especially during a patch test. These include redness, intense itching, and the formation of small bumps or blisters at the site of contact. These symptoms are actually the 'goal' of a diagnostic test, as they indicate a positive allergy result. Some patients may also experience temporary skin darkening or lightening after the reaction fades. While uncomfortable, these localized effects usually resolve within a week or two with the help of topical creams prescribed by a doctor. Systemic side effects are extremely rare when the drug is used topically.
There is no direct contraindication between alcohol consumption and the topical use of .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde for allergy testing. However, alcohol is a known vasodilator, which means it opens up blood vessels and can increase skin flushing. This might make the itching and redness at the test site more severe or uncomfortable. Furthermore, heavy alcohol use can sometimes interfere with the immune system's response, potentially affecting the accuracy of the diagnostic test. Most clinicians recommend avoiding or significantly limiting alcohol during the 48 to 96 hours when the patch test is being conducted.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning there is insufficient data to guarantee its safety during pregnancy. While the amount absorbed through the skin during a single diagnostic test is very low, most doctors prefer to wait until after pregnancy to perform elective allergy testing. This caution is to avoid any unnecessary immune system stimulation or stress for the mother and the developing fetus. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should inform your dermatologist before undergoing any testing with this compound. In cases of severe, debilitating skin disease, a doctor may decide the benefits of testing outweigh the theoretical risks.
When used for diagnostic allergy testing, .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde works through a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction, which takes time to develop. A patient will typically not see any reaction immediately after the patch is applied. The first signs of a reaction usually appear about 48 hours after application, which is why the first doctor's 'reading' happens at that time. However, some reactions are even more delayed and may not appear until 72 or 96 hours (4 days) after the initial contact. For its nitrogen-binding properties, the chemical interaction with ammonium ions occurs relatively quickly at the molecular level, but the clinical effects on ammonia levels would be monitored over several hours.
Since .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is usually applied as a one-time diagnostic patch rather than a long-term daily medication, 'stopping' it simply means having the patch removed by your healthcare provider. There are no withdrawal symptoms or physical dependencies associated with this substance. However, if you are having a strong allergic reaction to the patch, your doctor will provide instructions on how to safely treat the area after removal. You should never remove the diagnostic patch yourself before the scheduled 48-hour appointment unless you are experiencing a severe, emergency-level reaction like difficulty breathing or widespread hives. Early removal without medical guidance can make the test results invalid.
In the context of a patch test, a 'missed dose' usually means the diagnostic patch has fallen off or become loose. If this happens, do not try to tape it back on yourself, as this can alter the concentration and the results. Instead, call your dermatologist's office immediately to report the issue. They will decide if the test can still be read or if it needs to be rescheduled for a later date. If you are using a specialized formulation for metabolic purposes and miss a scheduled application, follow the specific instructions provided by your specialist, which usually involve applying the dose as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next one.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde causes weight gain. Its primary use is topical and diagnostic, meaning it does not enter the systemic circulation in amounts large enough to affect metabolism, appetite, or fat storage. Even in experimental systemic uses for nitrogen binding, weight gain has not been reported as a side effect. If you experience sudden weight gain or swelling while undergoing medical testing, it is more likely related to other medications (such as systemic steroids) or an underlying health condition. Always discuss any unexpected physical changes with your healthcare provider.
.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde can interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect the immune system. Systemic steroids like prednisone or immunosuppressants used for organ transplants can 'hide' an allergy by preventing the skin from reacting, leading to a false-negative test result. Topical steroids applied to the same area of the skin will also interfere with the test. Most other common medications, such as blood pressure pills or cholesterol drugs, do not interact with the topical patch. It is vital to provide your doctor with a full list of all prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements before you begin testing.
The term 'generic' is usually applied to prescription drugs, whereas .alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde is primarily a diagnostic chemical or a fragrance component. In the clinical world, it is available from several different manufacturers of diagnostic patch test kits. While the chemical itself is the same, the 'vehicle' (the material it is mixed with, like petrolatum) may vary slightly between brands. Because it is a specialized diagnostic agent used only by medical professionals, you cannot purchase it as a standard generic medication at a retail pharmacy. It is provided and applied directly by your specialist's office during your clinical evaluation.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (.alpha.-hexylcinnamaldehyde)