Trichloroacetic Acid Solution
Overview
Trichloroacetic acid is an analogue of acetic acid. When applied to the skin, trichloroacetic acid works to break the bonds between the outer layer of skin cells, including dead skin cells, and the next skin cell layer. This creates a peeling effect that can make the skin appear smoother and more even over time. It is a deeper peeling agent than glycolic acid and salicylic acid peels.1, 2, 3, 4
Trichloroacetic acid application to the skin can cause itching, burning, tingling, local pain, redness, scarring and hyperpigmentation. The higher the concentration and the longer the application duration, the greater the intensity and peeling effect. For these reasons, Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Peels are best administered under professional supervision by a healthcare practitioner.
Indications
Trichloroacetic acid solution has been studied and used in the topical treatment of warts, for the removal of tattoos, and for chemical peeling of the skin.
How Supplied
While trichloroacetic acid is currently marketed in cosmetics in various dosage forms, there is currently no FDA approved drug product containing trichloroacetic acid. As such, patients that would benefit from the administration of this preparation may be prescribed this compounded preparation as determined by a prescriber. Common formulations prepared at Galleria Medical Pharmacy include but are not limited to:
Trichloroacetic Acid 10% Solution
Trichloroacetic Acid 20% Solution
Trichloroacetic Acid 30% Solution
As per FDA regulations, compounds prepared by a pharmacy are not intended for office use (e.g., office stock of a drug that is administered to multiple patients). As such, this preparation requires a prescription, which is then administered to the specified patient by a healthcare practitioner at their practice.
Storage
Store this medication at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) and away from heat, moisture and light. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Throw away any unused medicine after the beyond use date. Do not flush unused medications or pour down a sink or drain.
Reference
- Coleman 3rd, W. P., and J. M. Futrell. “The glycolic acid trichloroacetic acid peel.” The Journal of dermatologic surgery and oncology 20.1 (1994): 76-80. https://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/8288810
- Kumari R and Thappa DM. 2010. Comparative study of trichloroacetic acid versus glycolic acid chemical peels in the treatment of melasma. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2010;76:447.
- Levine PJ. Chemical Facial Peel Formulations. Int J of Pharmaceutical Compounding 1999; 3(5): 375-377.
- Leheta T, et al. Percutaneous collagen induction versus full concentration trichloroacetic acid in the treatment of atrophic acne scars. Dermatol Surg. 2011 Feb;37(2):207-16. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21269351]
Compounding Pharmacy Statement
This preparation is compounded with drug components whose suppliers are registered with the FDA. While Galleria Medical Pharmacy adheres to USP <795> guidelines and applicable state and federal regulations to meet the required quality standards, the statements made regarding this preparation have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or clinical effectiveness. As such, this preparation is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For inquiries concerning this preparation, please contact (504) 267-9876.
