anthralin (for scalp only) - topical, Dritho-Scalp

BRAND NAME(S): Dritho-Scalp

Medication Uses|How To Use|Side Effects|Precautions|Drug Interactions|Overdose|Notes|Missed Dose|Storage

USES:This medication is used for the treatment of long-termpsoriasis of the scalp. Anthralin is a man-made version of a natural substance found in goa powder, which is from the araroba tree. It works by slowing down the growth of skin cells. This product does not contain acorticosteroidor coal tar. It is not meant to be used for a severe outbreak ofpsoriasis. Do not use this drug if the skin is inflamed or irritated.

HOW TO USE:Exactly follow all directions from your doctor and pharmacist. Learn how to apply this medicine, how long to leave it on thescalp, and how to avoid staining.This medication is for use on the scalp.To prevent discoloration of fingernails, apply this medication usingplasticgloves.Apply a thin layer to the area withpsoriasis, usually once daily. Avoid the normal scalp. Rub in well. If normal skin surrounding the treated areas becomes too irritated, you may cover the normal skin with petroleum jelly to protect it.Wash hair first with a shampoo to remove loose scales. Rinse off the shampoo, then apply this medication as directed, only on thepsoriasisarea.Follow your doctor's directions for how long to leave the drug on the scalp (usually starting at 5-10 minutes per treatment). Then wash the scalp with a recommended shampoo and rinse well.After using this medicine, wash hands with plenty of soap and water.Do not allow the drug to come in contact with the eyes or the inside of the nose/mouth. If this occurs,flushwith plenty of water. If irritation occurs, contact your doctor immediately.Treatment is usually continued until the affected area is entirely clear.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS:Temporary redness or irritation of the treated scalp may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: increased soreness of skin, spread ofpsoriasis.This medication may temporarily discolor fingernails or discolor gray/white hair. It will also stain skin and fabrics (see also Precautions section).A very seriousallergic reactionto this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a seriousallergicreaction, including:rash,itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severedizziness, troublebreathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS:Before using anthralin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to preservatives (e.g., parabens); or if you have any otherallergies. This product may contain other inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:kidney disease.To prevent staining of clothing or bed linen, a protective dressing may be useful. To prevent staining of the tub or shower (after washing off the medicine), rinse tub/shower with lukewarm water. Then use a cleanser to remove any deposits left on the surface.Duringpregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is unknown if this drug passes intobreast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially: other skin products or shampoos used for psoriasis,corticosteroids(e.g., triamcinolone, amcinonide creams).This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

OVERDOSE:This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If swallowing or overdose is suspected, contact apoison controlcenter or emergency room immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES:Do not share this medication with others.This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another skin condition unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

MISSED DOSE:If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE:Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Keep container tightly closed. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Information last revised March 2013. Copyright(c) 2013 First Databank, Inc.

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