anthralin 1 % topical cream

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Medication name

Generic name:
Anthralin - topical

Pronunciation
(AN-thra-lin)

Brand name(s)
Drithocreme

Uses

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.

How to use

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.

Side effects

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.

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, 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.

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

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.

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 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

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.

Before rinsing, it might be helpful to use a wet wipe to remove extra medication.

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. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

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.

Important note

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

Information last revised September 2024.

Selected from NATIONAL DRUG DATA FILE (NDDF) data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc., 2019. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider.

The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your health care professional. You should consult your health care professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.