Basic Information
- Habit forming? No
- Prescription needed? Yes
- Available as generic? No
- Drug class: Antipsoriasis, hair growth stimulant
Uses
- Treats quiescent or chronic psoriasis.
- Stimulates hair growth in some people (not an approved
use by the FDA).
Dosage & Usage Information
How to use:
Wear plastic gloves for all applications.
If directed, apply at night.
Cream, lotion, ointment--Bathe and dry area before use. Apply
small amount and rub gently.
If for short contact, same as above for cream.
Leave on 20 to 30 minutes. Then remove medicine by bathing
or shampooing.
If for scalp overnight--Shampoo before use to remove scales
or medicine. Dry hair. Part hair several times and apply to
scalp. Wear plastic cap on head. Clean off next morning with
petroleum jelly, then shampoo.
When to use:
As directed.
If you forget a dose:
Use as soon as you remember.
What drug does:
Reduces growth activity within abnormal cells by inhibiting
enzymes.
Time lapse before drug works:
May require several weeks or more.
Don't use with:
Any other medicine without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Overdose
SYMPTOMS:
None expected.
WHAT TO DO:
Not for internal use. If child accidentally swallows, call
poison-control center.
Possible Adverse Reactions or Side Effects
Life-threatening:
Common:
Infrequent:
Redness or irritation of skin not present before application,
rash.
Rare:
Warnings & Precautions
Don't use if:
- You are allergic to anthralin.
- You have infected skin.
Before you start, consult your doctor:
- If you have chronic kidney disease.
- If you are allergic to anything.
Over age 60:
No problems expected, but check with doctor.
Pregnancy:
Risks unknown. Studies in animals and humans have not been
done. Consult doctor.
Breast-feeding:
No problems expected, but check with doctor.
Infants & children:
No problems expected, but check with doctor.
Prolonged use:
No problems expected, but check with doctor.
Skin & sunlight:
May cause rash or intensify sunburn in areas exposed to sun
or sunlamp. Avoid undue exposure.
Driving, piloting or hazardous work:
No problems expected.
Discontinuing:
No problems expected.
Others:
- Keep cool, but don't freeze.
- Apply petroleum jelly to normal skin or scalp to protect
areas not being treated.
- Will stain hair, clothing, shower, bathtub or sheets.
Wash as soon as possible.
- Heat and moisture in bathroom medicine cabinet can cause
breakdown of medicine. Store someplace else.
Possible Interaction with Other Drugs
