A small number of the population is interested in the amount of sulfur in their body. The described element seems to be of little significance. It turns out that this is a fallacy. Sulfur is a yellow substance that is involved in all body processes and is absolutely irreplaceable. Sulfur from the iHerb website will help maintain the required amount of the most important element.
Sulfur in capsules: beneficial properties
Sulfur is a mineral that plays an important role in metabolism. Its deficiency in the body can be noticed immediately, it manifests itself:
In oily skin with blackheads and acne;
In weak and dull hair;
In thin, breaking and peeling nails;
In pale skin to which tan does not stick;
In slow healing of wounds.
In addition, sulfur deficiency can cause diseases of the joints, heart, liver, and decreased immunity. The fact is that it is a necessary building material for connective tissue cells, epithelium and neurons (nerve cells).
This substance is involved in the processes of digestion and hematopoiesis, as it is part of hemoglobin. It is the role of sulfur in the construction of blood cells that makes it indispensable in protecting the body from radiation.
We get the sulfur we need from food. It is found primarily in protein products: meat, fish, milk, eggs, cheese. Vegetables and grains also contain sulfur, albeit in smaller quantities, for example, there is quite a lot of it in cabbage, legumes, sprouted grains and brewer's yeast.
But if a person has a metabolic disorder, then he may experience a serious sulfur deficiency. It is difficult to replenish it with food; this will require powder or tablets with sulfur.
What is sulfur needed for, beneficial properties
Due to the presence of sulfur in the body, which enters it exclusively with food, it contributes to:
- reducing blood cholesterol levels;
- improving the condition of the epidermis;
- normalization of glucose balance;
- cleansing the liver of toxins;
- regulating the amount of bile in the body;
- improving brain activity;
- normalization of blood clotting;
- maintaining metabolic processes;
- strengthening the immune system.
In addition, the presence of sulfur in the human body not only has a beneficial effect on its general condition, but is also a preventive measure for cancer.
Sulfur tablets: application
As a dietary supplement or for medicinal purposes, sulfur is taken orally in powder form. It must be purchased in pharmacies, since specially purified sulfur is required.
1. You should take no more than 0.5 g of powder daily (depending on body weight).
2. The daily dose should be divided into three servings and drunk with water during meals.
3. Sulfur can be added to food or drinks. This is convenient if the drug is given to children who may accidentally inhale the powder, which is dangerous because it causes suffocation.
The use of tablets eliminates both this danger and the need to calculate the amount of powder for each dose. Nowadays, a drug containing organic sulfur has become especially popular. These tablets are considered dietary supplements and, in addition to sulfur, include vitamins, tonic and sedatives, or
Purified medical sulfur is a yellow powder. This microelement takes an active part in the functioning of the body and affects the condition of hair, nails, skin and skeletal bones. With insufficient sulfur content in the body, the synthesis of amino acids, keratin, and collagen becomes impossible. You can replenish the substance with the help of products containing sulfur. In the pharmacy chain it can be found in the form of ointment, paste or powder. Medical sulfur is often used in cosmetology to treat skin diseases.
The healing properties of medical sulfur
Sulfur affects almost all body systems. As a trace element, it is part of the amino acids methionine and cystine, which are involved in protein synthesis. Taking part in carbohydrate metabolism, it promotes greater absorption of glucose and is a structural part of B vitamins and collagen.
Among the beneficial properties are:
- stimulation of cellular respiration;
- preventing the development of musculoskeletal pathologies;
- maintaining stable bile concentrations;
- participation in the energy metabolism of brain cells;
- anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.
Effect on the skin
The problem of cosmetic skin defects brings discomfort to a person at any age. Sulfur has certain effects on the skin of the face, which is why it is actively used by cosmetologists:
- dries out the inflamed elements of the rash;
- is a local antiseptic;
- improves complexion;
- improves local blood circulation and oxygenation of the skin;
- stimulates the healing of wounds and burns;
- improves the condition of hair and nails;
- suppresses the proliferation of epidermal bacteria;
- has the effect of keratolysis - destroys keratinized scales of the upper layer of facial skin;
- restores firmness and elasticity.
By stimulating the production of collagen, medical sulfur prevents early aging, slows down the appearance of new acne and returns a healthy appearance to nails and hair.
Areas of use
In addition to the use of sulfur in medicine and dermatology, it is widely used in animal husbandry - feed sulfur as a biologically active additive is included in animal feed and vitamins. In agriculture it is used as soil fertilizer.
Combustible sulfur has found its use in pyrotechnics, the manufacture of explosives and matches. The production of steel and rubber also cannot do without this powder. It is also used in the manufacture of paints and varnishes.
Varieties of pharmaceutical sulfur
Pharmacy sulfur is available in several variations:
- 1. Purified sulfur in the form of yellow powder.
Should be taken orally for severe skin diseases, 1 g 3 times a day for one month. - 2. Sulfur ointment.
Prescribed for lichen, scabies, seborrhea, psoriasis. Apply to clean, dry skin and leave until completely absorbed. - 3. Sulfur soap.
Sold in pharmacies and used as a hand sanitizer. - 4. Mineral water from sulfur deposits.
It is suitable for internal use and washing. - 5. Biologically active products containing sulfur: brewer's yeast, vitamins for skin, hair and nails in tablets and capsules. The course of administration for an adult is designed for a month with a frequency of 1–3 times a day.
Organic sulfur on iHerb
The most absorbable form of iherb sulfur is represented by products with methylsulfonylmethane, MSM for short. This is a natural organic trace element. Iherb sulfur in the form of MSM is involved in the methylation process, which helps the body renew itself and remove toxins and heavy metals. The use of iherb sulfur gives energy and improves sleep.
Buyers who purchased sulfur on iherb noted a general renewal and restoration of the body. This drug is popular among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. It copes with many of the symptoms of this disease. The iHerb website offers to order products of organic and inorganic origin. A list of popular dietary supplements with sulfur on iHerb is presented.
Instructions for use
Sulfur preparations on the skin have a detrimental effect on various microorganisms, fungi and other pathogenic agents of skin infections. They make the dermis soft, causing the rough or uneven surface of the epidermis to dissolve and peel. Microelement deficiency in humans is manifested by the following symptoms:
- excessive dry skin;
- brittle nails;
- excessive hair loss;
- peeling;
- joint and muscle pain;
- skin allergies;
- acne;
- increased work of the sebaceous glands;
- rapid fatigue and low performance;
- rapid pulse;
- increased blood pressure;
- muscle weakness;
- disruption of the digestive tract, frequent constipation.
When these signs appear, it is necessary to find out the cause of acne. If there is insufficient intake of the element into the body, it is necessary to begin treatment with drugs containing sulfur.
There is a risk group - these are people who may have a reduced concentration of a microelement in the body:
- 1. Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- 2. Vegetarians.
- 3. People leading an active or extreme lifestyle.
- 4. Weightlifters who engage in strength training.
- 5. Women on a low protein diet.
This group of people needs to carefully monitor their diet and eat foods rich in sulfur: oatmeal and buckwheat, legumes, asparagus, garlic, dairy products, cabbage, beef, seafood, quail eggs.
Contraindications for taking medical sulfur in the instructions for use indicate hypersensitivity and children under 6 years of age. During pregnancy, medications can be taken after consultation with a doctor.
If acne on the face intensifies during oral or topical use of the powder, you must continue to take the drug. This is due to the elimination of problems from the deep layers of the dermis. Complex treatment with sulfur ointment together with brewer's yeast with this microelement helps effectively.
Sulfur is used internally and for enterobiasis. The course of treatment for helminthic infestation lasts for five days with a break of 4 days. These repetitions need to be done 4 times, after which you need to take control tests and make sure that the problem with worms is solved.
If a person uses sulfur ointment for the first time, a dermatological test is performed to check for an allergic reaction. To do this, apply a small amount of ointment to the area of skin on the elbow and leave overnight. If there is no redness or signs of allergy in this area of the skin, the ointment is approved for use.
Skin diseases are a sad reality that people face even in the 21st century. Several centuries ago, dermatological problems arose as a result of irregularity and poor quality of hygiene procedures. In the digital era, environmental, allergic and cosmetic reasons have been added to the listed factors. But there are not as many time-tested means of combating skin diseases as it seems at first glance.
Sulfur ointment is a well-known and widespread medicine in pharmacology. We are talking about a universal drug that not only relieves inflammation, but also heals, disinfects and treats the skin.
The use of sulfur ointment is an affordable, safe and effective way to get rid of a variety of dermatological diseases. It’s paradoxical, but few of our compatriots know how to properly use this effective remedy for a particular problem. We will devote today’s article to this pressing issue.
To form a general idea about the medication in question, it is important to determine what sulfur ointment helps with and what determines its effectiveness. We are talking about a medicinal product with pronounced disinfecting and anti-inflammatory properties. Liniment is indicated for the treatment of most dermatological ailments. Its effectiveness is due to the ability not only to eliminate unpleasant symptoms, but also the causes of the disease.
The first mentions of the use of sulfur ointment for medicinal purposes date back to the Middle Ages. In the 21st century, the 16th element of the periodic table has gained enormous popularity not only in medicine, but also in cosmetology. The mineral is found in many lotions, soaps and creams.
Clinical and pharmacological group
Sulfur ointment belongs to the pharmacological group of disinfectants and antiseptics. Liniment is active against most pathogenic microorganisms and does not have a selective effect. Used locally, externally.
pharmachologic effect
Principle of pharmacological action:
- After application to the surface of the affected areas of the skin, the components of the drug react with organic substances, forming pentotenic acid and sulfide compounds.
- The elements listed above and accompanying derivatives have a targeted effect on pathogenic microflora, inhibiting their vital activity.
- Active ingredients in combination with sulfides activate the biochemical processes of epidermal regeneration.
The active components of the drug are not absorbed into the main bloodstream. Therefore, liniment is considered absolutely safe for the human body. The only condition is to use the product exclusively as prescribed by a doctor and in recommended dosages.
Release form and composition
Ointment with sulfur has a light yellow color, a homogeneous creamy structure with small inclusions. The consistency is medium thick and has a distinct, unpleasant odor. The concentration of the active mineral varies from 5 to 33%. The medicine is supplied in glass jars of 15-70 g, as well as in aluminum tubes of 30 and 40 g.
Composition of regular ointment:
- ground sulfur – 0.333 g per 1 g of finished product;
- emulsifier type “T-2”;
- mineral extracts;
- soft paraffin (white Vaseline).
The ratio of the precipitated emulsion to the main active ingredient does not exceed 2:1.
Storage conditions and periods
Ordinary sulfur ointment (thirty-three percent) is stored no longer than 24 months from the production date indicated on the packaging. To preserve the medicinal properties of the composition, it is important that the aluminum tube remains sealed and the original packaging undamaged. Requirements for environmental conditions: temperature range – up to +15 °C, no direct contact with ultraviolet rays and a source of moisture.
Occupational hazard
Elemental sulfur does not have pronounced toxic properties, but many of its compounds (carbon disulfide, hydrogen sulfide, etc.) are very toxic. The toxic effect of S. dust is very weak; acute poisoning is excluded. However, with prolonged inhalation of elemental S. dust, the development of thiopneumoconiosis is possible (see Pneumoconiosis). Sometimes irritation of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, gastritis, a tendency to lower blood pressure, fatigue, irritability, headaches, poor sleep, and discomfort in the heart area are noted. Conjunctivitis (see), vegetative and vegetative-vascular disorders are common. The glutathione content in the blood decreases, leukocytosis and monocytosis are noted. There is evidence of changes in the bones of the skull (frontal, parietal bones and bones of the base of the skull), inflammatory diseases of the paranasal sinuses, which is believed to be a consequence of metabolic disorders, in particular the ratio of organic and inorganic S. Occasionally, powdered S. can cause eczema ( cm.). In all of these cases, contact with S. must be stopped immediately. Treatment is symptomatic.
Instructions for use: how to use sulfur ointment
According to the instructions for use, sulfur ointment is used locally on problem areas of the skin, and only externally. It is recommended to apply the treatment to a previously cleaned and dry epithelial layer. It is forbidden to treat large areas of the face, as well as the scalp. The duration of therapy and frequency of use are determined individually for each patient.
It is initially important for patients to prepare for a long fight, since dermatological diseases are characterized by a recurrent nature of manifestations.
For effective treatment of diseases, it is important to enlist the support of a dermatologist. Only the doctor will determine the safe dosage based on the patient’s clinical condition and the severity of the pathology. Self-medication is fraught with aggravation of the disease process, allergic reactions and side effects.
Indications and contraindications
Indications for the use of sulfur ointment:
Such a variety of skin ailments can be treated quickly and effectively, provided that you contact a specialist in a timely manner and prescribe an adequate treatment regimen. In some cases, complex treatment based on several medications is recommended.
Despite the fact that sulfur-based drugs are considered gentle, some patients do not want to use them. In particular, we are talking about patients with hypersensitivity of the body to liniment components or individual intolerance to sulfur. Before applying the composition to the problem area, you need to test it on a small area of the skin (your wrist will do) to make sure there is no allergy.
Directions for use and doses
The use of sulfur ointment for the treatment of skin diseases differs in each specific case, depending on the characteristics of the pathology. Below are the doses and frequency of treatment recommended in the official instructions for various diseases.
It is important to adhere to preventive measures during the main course of treatment. This will not only ensure a sustainable effect of therapy, but also eliminate the likelihood of relapse of the disease.
Side effects and special instructions
Sulfur ointment in rare cases provokes side effects in the form of allergic reactions. After applying the composition, the patient may experience headache, dizziness, itching, burning, urticaria or local swelling. The listed reactions do not require treatment and disappear after stopping use of the medicine.
Special instructions:
- The ointment is removed from the surface of the skin using refined vegetable oil, previously boiled in steam.
- Long-term treatment with ointments or creams containing sulfur is contraindicated. The element in question actively accumulates in human organs and blood. Subsequently, the substance can cause associated complications.
- During therapy, it is necessary to avoid eating spicy and fried foods.
Long-term treatment automatically provides for the saturation of the body with useful microelements and vitamins.
Pregnancy and lactation
The safety of sulfur ointment for pregnant women has not been studied; no one has conducted experimental studies. Doctors recommend first obtaining an official prescription from a doctor and using liniment according to his instructions. There is no confirmed data on the negative effect of the drug on the fetus in the womb.
Use in childhood
Sulfur ointment is contraindicated in children under 3 years of age due to its low toxicity. Pediatricians recommend using the pharmaceutical product from 3 years after the doctor’s prescription. A fragile body reacts negatively to the active ingredients of liniment, which is fraught with severe allergic reactions.
Drug interactions
Dermatologists focus on the fact that the composition of sulfur ointment reacts actively with potassium permanganate, as well as hydrogen peroxide. The simultaneous use of these external agents is strictly prohibited. There is a high risk of getting a chemical burn or worsening the patient's condition.
In complex therapy, additional medications are included only on the recommendation of a doctor.
Sulfur, purified instructions for use
Fully purified sulfur is used for various skin conditions and in 20%, 10% and 5% powders and ointments.
In addition, purified sulfur is used internally as a mild expectorant and laxative, 2.0; 1.0; 0.5 grams each.
For the treatment of enterobiasis, this drug is prescribed for consumption three times a day, but for 5 days, for adults - 1.0-0.8 g and for children - about 0.05 g, and for children aged 5 or 6 years - exactly 0.25 g.
After this, a four-day break is taken during the treatment process, during which enemas with the addition of sodium bicarbonate or sodium chloride are given every day at night. After the break, there is again a five-day cycle for taking sulfur, after which there is again a break of four days. This five-day cycle of sulfur treatment is carried out mainly from 3 to 5 times.
Application of purified sulfur internally and externally
It is worth noting that this drug does not work in dry form. In the presence of moisture, organic substances and alkalis, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, various sulfur alkalis and oxygen are formed, which have a positive effect.
After using this drug internally, sodium sulfite, sodium hydrosulfite and hydrogen sulfide are formed, which strongly irritate the receptors inside the intestines and act as a laxative. To hydrogen sulfide, sulfur is able to be restored in the large intestine under the strict influence of bacteria and, of course, protein substances of the mucous membranes within an alkaline environment with the participation of glutathione and cysteine. About 10 percent of the sulfur introduced inside is restored, and the rest will be excreted along with the feces. In addition, sulfur, precipitated in a finely dispersed state, is quickly reduced directly into hydrogen sulfide, then absorbed and after that may well cause poisoning in a person, since a laxative is not used. Sublimated purified sulfur is used as a laxative. In addition, hydrogen sulfide can be partially absorbed from the intestines and, when released through the lungs, has an expectorant effect. Immediately after parenteral administration of this drug, sulfur causes a number of reactions in the body that are characteristic of nonspecific medical therapy by the appearance of irritation. Because of this, the tone directly in the autonomic innervation significantly increases, then the protective forces in the human body are strengthened, the formation of a number of antibodies increases, and the ability of the human body to completely neutralize the poison also increases.
In animals, thanks to their intestinal microflora and proventriculus, sulfur actively increases the formation of certain vitamins and takes full part in the synthesis of sulfur-containing amino acids. The needs of animals in the environment are satisfied thanks to amino acids - L-methionine, L-cysteine and L-cystine, as well as heterocyclic compounds - thiamine and biotin. Cystine and cysteine are found in the general composition of proteins, enzymes and certain hormones; These amino acids are also necessary to accelerate the rapid growth of animal fur, horns and hair.
In dermatology, it is used to treat eczema, scabies, furunculosis, dermatitis, trichophytosis and other lesions of the skin and body as ointments (10-30%), dusts and liniments. This drug is prescribed as a mild laxative (but quite rarely), as well as an antidote for very acute chronic diseases with drugs, mercury, lead and other heavy metals, but at the same time all insoluble sulfur beneficial compounds with some heavy metal salts are formed inside the intestine.
Sulfur is also used to fully improve the metabolism of all substances, to accelerate growth, significantly enhance fermentation (bacterial) in the forestomach in ruminants, accelerate the growth of wool in sheep, hooves and horns in various animals.
Purified sulfur, where to buy
You can purchase purified sulfur at any veterinary pharmacy. There is sulfur by weight, and there is also packaged in bags.
Sulfur, refined price
1 kilogram of purified sulfur can be purchased for 115 rubles.
Sulfur, purified reviews
A cosmetologist recommended purified sulfur to me. Its main advantage is its low cost. Sulfur is safe for both internal and external use on the face. It definitely won't do any harm. I buy sulfur from pharmacies where they make custom medicines. After all, you can only buy purified sulfur to order. Moreover, it is sold without a prescription. I took it three times a day. You can drink it with water, or you can do just that. I took it for one month, and the acne practically disappeared, and my facial skin improved significantly. You can also apply purified sulfur to inflamed areas of facial skin. You should first mix sulfur with any lotion, maybe even with alcohol. Apply the resulting paste to pimples, it is better to do this at night. And the very next day the inflammation will go away, and the pimple will become smaller in size.
Similar instructions:
Sulfur ointment is used in the treatment of skin diseases. It has proven itself well, so the drug is often prescribed to eliminate the inflammatory process, disinfect the wound and destroy harmful microorganisms.
Important! Modern medicine recognizes that sulfur ointment and its varieties have harmful effects on the body and that for every disease there are other, more effective and safe alternatives.
Indications for use of ointment
The drug is prescribed for a variety of skin diseases.
The ointment is prescribed in the complex treatment of the following conditions:
- psoriasis;
- acne or acne.
Despite the variety of skin diseases, a sulfur-based product can effectively restore skin health. At the first signs of pathology, you should consult a doctor so that a specialist can select an individual treatment regimen, which includes the use of sulfur ointment.
Directions for use and doses
Before applying sulfur ointment, the skin should be thoroughly cleansed. The affected area must be washed thoroughly under running water, it is better to use baby soap. After which the body should be wiped dry so that no drops of water remain.
For adults and children (after 3 years), the ointment is applied to the affected area of the skin in a thin layer once a day. Therapy should be carried out for 7–10 days. However, depending on the disease and the course of recovery, the doctor may make adjustments in the use of the drug.
The ointment should be applied in a thin layer, with the exception of acne or pimples. In this case, the drug is used locally in large quantities on the affected areas.
After using the medicine, you should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water. It is advisable to repeat the procedure several times. If the ointment must be applied to the face, it is important that it does not come into contact with the eyes, nose or mouth.
If this happens, then the affected area must be washed with plenty of water.
Contraindications to the use of sulfur ointment
As a rule, the drug is well tolerated. However, its main active ingredient, sulfur, has an irritating effect.
It is prohibited to use the drug for children under 3 years of age. A fragile body may react negatively to the ointment and cause an allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and lactation
The safety of using sulfur ointment during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been studied. Taking this nuance into account, the drug is used if the desired benefit for the expectant mother outweighs the possible risk to the health and development of the fetus.
Overdose of sulfur ointment
Throughout the entire period, no unpleasant effects of overdose were observed.
Side effects
Patients usually tolerate sulfur ointment quite well. However, with prolonged and uncontrolled use, adverse reactions may occur:
- skin redness;
- burning.
The drug may leave stains on clothes and bedding that cannot be washed. During therapy, it is better to use things that you won’t mind throwing away later.
Composition of sulfur-based ointment
Active ingredient: 1 g of ointment contains 333 mg of sulfur.
Auxiliary components that form the basis for the emulsion: soft paraffin, purified water, T-2 emulsifier.
Thanks to the additional components, the drug is well applied to the skin, and its active substance penetrates well into the affected layer of the epidermis.
The drug is produced in the form of an ointment for external use. Pharmacological companies produce it in tubes or jars, made of thick, dark glass. Typically, the dosage ranges from 15 to 70 grams.
Pharmacology and pharmacokinetics
The drug performs several main functions:
Despite its simple composition, the ointment quickly and effectively restores the health of the skin. As soon as the drug reaches the upper layers of the epidermis, the active components of the drug, that is, sulfur, react with organic microorganisms that harm the skin.
In addition, sulfides have a healing effect, which allows the resulting wounds to heal faster.
By applying sulfur ointment to the affected areas of the skin, its active ingredients eliminate dead cells. Regular use will allow the skin to renew itself faster.
Thanks to its regenerative properties, the epidermis resumes normal blood supply, which in turn gives the skin a healthy color and eliminates oily shine.
Other
Sulfur ointment must be stored in its original packaging at a temperature not exceeding 25°C.
Available without a prescription.
Instructions for using sulfur
When purchasing sulfur at a pharmacy, you can always read the instructions, which indicate indications for use, contraindications, and dosage. But a prerequisite is a preliminary consultation with a doctor, who, in addition to prescribing the drug, writes in the prescription exactly what dose a person should take.
Sulfur powder for internal use
Powdered sulfur is often used as a treatment for obesity, enterobiasis, or when there are problems with blood circulation.
Eg:
- If a person has skin or fungal diseases, then purified medical sulfur is prescribed as a medicine. It should be taken three times a day, 0.5-1 grams, and the course of treatment should not exceed 3-4 weeks.
- For enterobiasis, 1 gram of sulfur powder is used for an adult, and for children under 5 years old, no more than 0.25 g, but for children over 6 years old, the powder rate should be no more than 0.5 grams. The duration of therapy can be only 5 days, and after that there must be a 4-day break. The course of treatment until complete recovery is 3-5 times.
- As a general tonic or expectorant, sulfur powder can be used 0.25 grams before breakfast every day.
Sulfuric ointment
As already noted, sulfur is an essential trace element for the human body, but it can be used externally to treat some skin diseases. The thing is that, for example, sulfur ointment has disinfectant, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.
It is used to treat diseases such as:
- lichen;
- psoriasis;
- seborrhea;
- scabies;
- demodicosis;
- fungal infections.
To do this, you need to apply sulfur ointment to the damaged area of the skin. The course of treatment is 5-10 days and, depending on the degree of complexity of the disease, is applied 1-3 times a day.
Brewer's yeast with sulfur
It should also be noted that at the pharmacy you can buy brewer's yeast containing sulfur, namely a vitamin food supplement with the indicated components.
Thanks to this supplement, you can not only maintain the health of the body, but significantly improve the condition of the skin, nails and hair. This supplement is also often used to rejuvenate facial skin.
Chewable sulfur
In addition to these pharmaceutical products, you can purchase chewing sulfur. This is a kind of alternative to conventional chewing gum, but consists of larch resinous compounds. One of the main advantages of chewing sulfur is that it has good antimicrobial properties.
It is often used for:
- periodontal disease;
- periodontitis;
- inflammatory processes of the oral cavity;
- stomatitis;
- sore throat.
It also helps cleanse tooth enamel from plaque, caries and helps quite well in eliminating toothache. Experts recommend chewing designated natural larch as a preventive measure twice a day for no more than 30 minutes.