topiques

Topiques is a term with multiple uses across medicine, philosophy, and language. In medical and pharmaceutical contexts, topiques (or topical preparations) refer to drugs applied directly to surfaces of the body, typically the skin or mucous membranes, for local effect. They are designed to act at the site of application with limited systemic absorption. Common formulations include creams, ointments, gels, lotions, pastes, and transdermal patches. Topiques are used to treat dermatologic conditions such as eczema and dermatitis, infections caused by bacteria or fungi, inflammatory or allergic reactions, pain, and mucosal irritations. Advantages include targeted action and rapid onset for surface conditions; limitations involve variable skin absorption, potential irritation or dermatitis, and interactions with occlusion, temperature, and skin integrity. Dosing and storage depend on the specific product and condition.

In philosophy and rhetoric, Topiques (Topics) is an ancient treatise traditionally attributed to Aristotle. The work presents a method for generating arguments by applying a set of common lines of reasoning, or topoi, to a given issue. It influenced later logic, dialectics, and rhetorical theory and helped shape scholastic debate techniques through the medieval period and beyond.

In contemporary usage, topique is the French term for a topical medication, and topiques is its plural form. The word can also appear in English-language discussions of philosophy as a reference to Aristotle’s Topics. When used, context typically clarifies whether the reference is to medical topicals or to the Aristotelian Topics.