Overview of Para
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Dimethicone (Polydimethylsiloxane) |
| Form | Cream, lotion, oil (Topical); Liquid suspension (Oral) |
| Pharmacological Class | Skin Protectant; Antifoaming Agent |
| Common Purpose | Barrier protection; Gas/Bloating relief |
| Origin | Synthetic (Organosilicon Polymer) |
The medicinal entity referred to as Para contains the active ingredient Dimethicone, a high-molecular-weight, synthetic organosilicon polymer also known as Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). This polymer is chemically inert and is not absorbed into the bloodstream when applied topically or ingested. It is primarily supplied as a single active ingredient product, offered in both topical forms (cream, lotion, or oil) and oral forms (liquid suspensions or drops).
What Pharmacological Class Does Dimethicone Belong To?
Dimethicone is classified based on its functional properties and intended route of administration. For external use, it is a recognized Emollient and Skin Protectant due to its ability to create a lasting barrier on the skin's surface. This skin protectant function serves to prevent irritation caused by excessive moisture or external factors.
For internal, oral forms, it functions primarily as an Antifoaming Agent. Dimethicone works by altering the surface tension of gas bubbles within the gastrointestinal tract. This action aids in breaking down gas pockets to ease symptoms of bloating and abdominal discomfort. The overall purpose of Dimethicone is to provide physical protection to the skin or facilitate the mechanical breakdown of trapped gas, as its non-systemic nature ensures action is localized at the site of application.
How Does Dimethicone Differ from Traditional Skin Agents?
The fundamental difference lies in Dimethicone's function as a physical agent that does not interact chemically or require systemic absorption to exert its effects. When applied to the skin, its defining action is the formation of a smooth, occlusive barrier that resists water loss and shields the underlying tissue. This mechanism is based on polymer barrier properties. The inherent inertness of the organosilicon polymer is its chief differentiating factor, allowing it to provide efficient, surface-level relief across the skin and gut without entering the systemic circulation.

