This medication is used for the treatment of long-term
psoriasis. 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 a corticosteroid or
coal tar. It is not meant to be used for a severe outbreak of psoriasis. Do
not use this drug if the skin is inflamed or irritated.
Exactly follow all directions from your doctor and
pharmacist. Learn how to apply the medicine, how long to leave it on the
scalp or skin, and how to avoid staining.
This medication is for use on the skin and/or
scalp.
To prevent discoloration of fingernails, apply this
medication using plastic gloves.
Apply a thin layer to the area with psoriasis, usually
once daily. Avoid the normal skin/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.
To treat the scalp, wash hair first with a shampoo to
remove loose scales. Rinse off the shampoo, then apply this medication as
directed, only on the psoriasis area.
Follow your doctor's directions for how long to leave
the drug on the skin/scalp (usually starting at 10-30 minutes per
treatment), then remove the drug. First, rinse with cool-to-lukewarm water
(less than 80 degrees F/27 degrees C). Then, if you are treating the scalp,
shampoo the scalp, and if you are treating the skin, wash the treated skin
by taking a bath or shower using soap and hot water.
After using this medicine, rinse hands right away with
lukewarm water, then wash with soap and warm water.
Do not allow the drug to come in contact with eyes,
mucous membranes (such as lips, mouth, nose), or genital area. If this
occurs, flush with plenty of cool-to-lukewarm water. If irritation occurs,
contact your doctor right away.
Caution is advised when applying on the areas between
toes and fingers, on the face, or in skin folds. If too much irritation
occurs after using this medication, stop using this medication and tell
your doctor.
Treatment is usually continued until the affected area
is entirely clear.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets
worse.
Temporary redness or irritation of the treated skin may
occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
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.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- increased soreness of skin
- spread of psoriasis
This medication may temporarily discolor fingernails or
discolor gray/white hair. It will also stain skin and fabrics (see also
Precautions section).
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 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, especially of:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Before rinsing, it might be helpful to use a wet wipe to
remove extra medication.
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 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.