Disclosed are topical formulations for delivery of an active ingredient to a patient. The formulation comprises components including: an active ingredient a vasoactive agent and a chelator, wherein the components are selected so that none of the other components is sequestered by the chelator. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises an osmolarity that is greater than about 345 milliOsmoles/liter (345 mOsM). In some embodiments, the formulation further comprises an osmolyte, wherein the osmoyte does not include an ion with a valency higher than monovalency. In some embodiments, the osmolyte in the formulation comprises an osmolarity that is greater than about 290 milliOsmoles/liter (290 mOsM). Also disclosed are methods for using the formulations, and components thereof, kits comprising the components of the formulation, and methods for manufacturing a medicament comprising components of the formulations.
