urea /yo͝or″ē·ə/ [Gk, ouron, urine] , a normal metabolic waste product from protein metabolism, used as a systemic osmotic diuretic and topical emollient. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed systemically to reduce cerebrospinal and intraocular fluid pressure and is used topically as a keratolytic agent. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Severely impaired kidney function, active intracranial bleeding, marked dehydration, or liver damage prohibits its systemic use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are pain and necrosis at the site of injection, headache, GI disturbances, and dizziness. There are no known severe reactions to topical use.
