Parker Aquagel Lubricating Gel is a highly recognised and widely used medical lubricant manufactured by Parker Laboratories, Inc. It is specifically designed for professional healthcare environments and procedures where sterile conditions are not strictly required, though similar sterile versions exist under different brand names.
The gel is known for its purity, compatibility, and versatility, making it a standard accessory in hospitals, clinics, and general practices worldwide.
Key Features and Composition
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Type: Non-sterile, medical-grade lubricating gel
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Composition: Primarily water-based, containing reverse osmosis (RO) water, a polymer (for viscosity), a humectant (to retain moisture), and preservatives (specifically Methyl Paraben and Propyl Paraben) in bacteriostatic concentration.
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Consistency: Viscous (thick) and non-runny, which allows it to stay in place during procedures.
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Compatibility: It is water-soluble, greaseless, and non-staining.Crucially, it is compatible with both natural and synthetic substances, meaning that it is safe to use with human tissue, rubber (like gloves and catheters), and metal instruments.
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Safety Profile:
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Bacteriostatic: Contains agents to inhibit the growth of bacteria.
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Non-Irritating & Hypoallergenic: Designed to be gentle on the skin and mucous membranes, reducing the risk of irritation.
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Latex-Free: Safe for use with latex-sensitive patients or equipment
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Note: It is not a contraceptive and does not contain spermicide
Common Medical and Electromedical Applications
Parker Aquagel's properties make it suitable for a wide variety of medical and personal uses:
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General Hospital Lubrication: Used for digital and instrument examinations.
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Gynaecological Procedures: Essential for speculum insertion, examinations, and other gynaecological uses.
Catheter/Probe Insertion: Used to lubricate medical instruments, tubes, and probes before insertion into the body (e.g., insertion of supraglottic airway devices like the i-gel). -
Rectal Procedures: Used for rectal thermometers, enemas, and digital examinations.
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Electromedical Contact Medium: Due to its excellent conductive properties, it can be used in some electromedical applications where conductivity is required (though Parker Laboratories also produces dedicated ultrasound and electrode gels).
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Personal Use: Can be used as a personal lubricant, and for applications involving medical devices like erectile dysfunction pumps (to provide a seal).
Packaging and Availability
The gel is widely available in several practical sizes to suit various medical settings, including:
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142 g (5 oz) Tubes: Often with a convenient flip-top cap for easy, single-patient application.
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1.9 L (Half U.S. Gallon) Dispenser Bottles: An economical, hospital-sized format typically fitted with a pump dispenser.
In summary, Parker Aquagel is the international choice for a non-sterile, multi-purpose, water-soluble lubricating gel, valued in clinical environments for its compatibility, high viscosity, and bacteriostatic nature.