This medication is used to treat dandruff and a certain
scalp infection (seborrheic dermatitis). It reduces itching, flaking,
irritation, and redness of the scalp. Selenium sulfide is also used for a
condition that causes discoloration of the skin (tinea versicolor). This
medication belongs to a class of medications called anti-infectives. It
works by slowing the growth of the yeast that causes the
infection.
This medication is not recommended for children younger
than 2 years. Consult your doctor before using this
medication.
This medication is for use on the skin only. Some brands
require shaking before use. Check your product package to see if your brand
needs to be shaken. Before using this medication, remove any jewelry to
avoid damage to it. Avoid getting this medication into your eyes, inside
your nose or mouth, or on any areas of broken/inflamed skin since it may
cause irritation. If this occurs, flush the area with plenty of water.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to
use this medication properly.
For the treatment of dandruff or scalp dermatitis,
follow the manufacturer's instructions, or use as directed by your doctor.
Wet the scalp and massage the medication onto the wet scalp. Leave it on
your scalp for 2-3 minutes and rinse thoroughly. Some brands may require a
second application. Check your product package to see if your brand
requires a repeat application. Be sure to rinse your hair and scalp well
with water after each application, especially on bleached, tinted, or
permed hair. This medication is usually used 1 or 2 times per week to treat
dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, or less often to maintain control of
dandruff.
For the treatment of tinea versicolor, apply selenium
sulfide to the affected skin. Lather with a small amount of water. Allow it
to remain on your skin for 10 minutes. Rinse your skin thoroughly with
water after each use. If the medication touches the genital areas or skin
folds, rinse the area well with water for a few minutes to prevent
irritation. This medication is applied usually once daily for 7 days to
treat tinea versicolor, or use as directed by your doctor.
Wash your hands after using selenium sulfide. Do not
leave this medication on your hair, scalp, or skin for a longer period or
use it more often than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but
side effects may be increased.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Skin irritation, dry skin, oily or dry hair/scalp, or
temporary hair loss may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse,
discontinue use and consult your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Hair
discoloration may occur and can be reduced by carefully rinsing the hair
thoroughly after each treatment.
If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember
that 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.
Before using selenium sulfide, 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, especially of:
- red/irritated/broken skin
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
If you are using selenium sulfide on the body for tinea
versicolor, this medication should be used during pregnancy only when
clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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.
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 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
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. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature. Avoid freezing. 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.