Overview of Acarsan
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Benzyl Benzoate |
| Primary Form | Emulsion, Lotion, or Solution |
| Pharmacological Class | Ectoparasiticide / Acaricide |
| Route of Administration | Topical (Applied to the skin) |
| Origin | Synthetic Organic Compound |
What Pharmacological Class Does it Belong To?
Acarsan is a medicine containing the single active ingredient Benzyl Benzoate, which is classified as an Ectoparasiticide. This core pharmacological classification indicates that the preparation is specifically designed to eliminate parasites that infest the external surfaces of the body, distinguishing it from treatments for internal organisms. The Benzyl Benzoate molecule is a synthetic organic compound chemically defined as an ester, a structure clinically recognized for its efficacy in topical applications.
Composition and Topical Preparation Forms
The medicine is manufactured for the topical route of administration, meaning it is applied directly onto the skin. It is typically formulated as an emulsion, lotion, or solution—a preparation type intended to ensure broad and consistent coverage over large areas of the skin, facilitating effective external use. The active substance is suspended within an emulsified or alcoholic base/vehicle optimized for this application. The active ingredient maintains an established role in public health contexts.
The General Purpose of Acarsan
The primary purpose of Acarsan is to eradicate parasitic infestations by acting as a specific agent against the target organisms, such as Sarcoptes scabiei mites. The active ingredient functions as a neurotoxin to the parasites, interfering with the normal operation of their nervous system, which rapidly leads to their elimination. Crucially, this action extends to the ova, or eggs, of the parasites, confirming the medicine's capability to clear an active external infestation and also address the reproductive cycle of the organisms.
Regulatory References

