Anthralin
(AN thra lin)
U.S. Brand Names
Dritho-Scalp®; Psoriatec™i
Canadian Brand Names
Anthraforte®; Anthranol®; Anthrascalp®; Micanol®i
Pharmacologic Category
Antipsoriatic Agent; Keratolytic Agent
Reasons not to take this medicine
• If you have an allergy to anthralin or any other part of this medicine
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine
Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you
This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved
What is this medicine used for?i
This medicine is used to treat psoriasis
How does it work?i
• Anthralin interferes with skin growth
• It reduces inflammation
How is it best taken?i
• Do not take this medicine by mouth
For skin only
Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn)i
• Use a rubber glove to apply
• Clean affected area before use
Make sure to dry well
• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and rub in gently
• Avoid applying to unaffected skin
• Leave on skin for the directed amount of time, then wash off
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)i
• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule
• Do not apply a double dose or extra doses
• Do not change dose or stop medicine
Talk with healthcare provider
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?i
• Check medicines with healthcare provider
This medicine may not mix well with other medicines
• This medicine can stain fabric, flooring, painted surfaces, marble, granite, vinyl, and enamel
• This medicine can stain fingernails, hair, and skin
• Clean shower or tub immediately after use to prevent staining
• Do not put coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) over the area unless told to do so by healthcare provider
• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant
• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?i
• Skin irritation
What should I monitor?i
• Change in condition being treated Is it better, worse, or about the same?i
• Follow up with healthcare provider
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911
• Signs of a life-threatening reaction
These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe skin irritation
• Any rash
• No improvement in condition or feeling worse
How should I store this medicine?i
• Store at room temperature
General statements
If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times
• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you
Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant)i
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins