Papers of the Week

Dexpanthenol is an ingredient in multiple topical pharmaceutical preparations thanks to its high penetration and localized concentration. It is included in many ointments or lotions for dermatological use, assisting in healing and reducing pruritus. Vaseline is a synthetic product obtained by distilling crude oil. It is commercially available in several grades. The study presented here examined how topically applied agents (dexpanthenol or vaseline) affect nasal epithelial cells in culture. In particular, the study aimed to identify any alterations to epithelial cells which might indicate toxicity.