Uses

This medication is used for the treatment of scalp psoriasis. Anthralin is a man-made version of a natural substance found in goa powder, which is from the araroba tree. It works by decreasing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells.

How to use Anthralin Micronized Shampoo

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using anthralin shampoo and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is for use on the scalp as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a week. Wet hair, then massage anthralin shampoo onto scalp. Work into a gentle lather and leave on the scalp for 3 to 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid contact with eyes. Although no additional shampoo is necessary to cleanse the hair, a non-medicated shampoo or conditioner can be applied after using anthralin shampoo, if desired.

Use this product regularly to get the most benefit from it. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Side Effects

Temporary redness or irritation of the treated scalp may occur. If either of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Temporary staining of hair or skin may occur. To lessen the chance of staining, apply carefully only on the scalp, avoiding your face. Try to avoid getting anthralin shampoo on fabrics since permanent staining may occur.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor 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.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

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 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

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 if you have any other allergies. This product may contain 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.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. However, it is unlikely to pass into breast milk or harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

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Overdose

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Notes Notes

Do not share this product with others.

Missed Dose Missed Dose

Not applicable.

Storage Storage

Store at room temperature away from light. Keep all medications 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.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.