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Pronunciation |
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(AN
thra
lin) |
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U.S. Brand
Names |
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Anthra-Derm®; Drithocreme®;
Drithocreme® HP 1%; Dritho-Scalp®; Micanol®
Cream |
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Generic
Available |
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Yes |
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Canadian Brand
Names |
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Anthraforte®; Anthranol®;
Anthrascalp® |
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Synonyms |
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Dithranol |
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Pharmacological Index |
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Antipsoriatic Agent; Keratolytic Agent |
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Use |
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Treatment of psoriasis (quiescent or chronic psoriasis) |
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Pregnancy Risk
Factor |
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C |
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Contraindications |
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Hypersensitivity to anthralin or any component, acute psoriasis (acutely or
actively inflamed psoriatic eruptions); use on the face |
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Warnings/Precautions |
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If redness is observed, reduce frequency of dosage or discontinue
application; avoid eye contact; should generally not be applied to
intertriginous skin areas and high strengths should not be used on these sites;
do not apply to face or genitalia; use caution in patients with renal disease
and in those having extensive and prolonged applications; perform periodic urine
tests for albuminuria. |
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Adverse
Reactions |
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1% to 10%: Dermatologic: Transient primary irritation of uninvolved skin;
temporary discoloration of hair and fingernails; may stain skin, hair, or
fabrics
<1%: Rash, excessive irritation |
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Drug
Interactions |
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Increased toxicity: Long-term use of topical corticosteroids may destabilize
psoriasis, and withdrawal may also give rise to a "rebound" phenomenon, allow an
interval of at least 1 week between the discontinuance of topical
corticosteroids and the commencement of therapy |
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Mechanism of
Action |
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Reduction of the mitotic rate and proliferation of epidermal cells in
psoriasis by inhibiting synthesis of nucleic protein from inhibition of DNA
synthesis to affected areas |
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Usual Dosage |
|
Adults: Topical: Generally, apply once a day or as directed. The
irritant potential of anthralin is directly related to the strength being used
and each patient's individual tolerance. Always commence treatment for at least
one week using the lowest strength possible.
Scalp application: Comb hair to remove scalar debris and, after suitably
parting, rub cream well into the lesions, taking care to prevent the cream from
spreading onto the forehead
Remove by washing or showering; optimal period of contact will vary according
to the strength used and the patient's response to treatment. Continue treatment
until the skin is entirely clear (ie, when there is nothing to feel with the
fingers and the texture is normal) |
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Mental Health: Effects
on Mental Status |
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None reported |
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Mental Health:
Effects on Psychiatric
Treatment |
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None reported |
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Dental Health: Local
Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor
Precautions |
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No information available to require special precautions |
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Dental Health:
Effects on Dental Treatment |
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No effects or complications reported |
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Patient
Information |
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For external use only. Use exactly as directed; do not overuse. Before using,
wash and dry area gently. Wear gloves to apply a thin film to affected area and
rub in gently. May discolor fabric, skin, or hair. If dressing is necessary, use
a porous dressing. Avoid contact with eyes. Avoid exposing treated area to
direct sunlight; sunburn can occur. Remove by washing; optimal period of contact
will vary according to strength used and response to treatment. Report increased
swelling, redness, rash, itching, signs of infection, worsening of condition, or
lack of healing. Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Inform prescriber
if you are or intend to be pregnant. Consult prescriber if breast-feeding.
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Nursing
Implications |
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Wear gloves; can discolor skin, hair, or clothes |
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Dosage Forms |
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Cream: 0.1% (50 g, 65 g); 0.2% (65 g); 0.25% (50 g); 0.4% (65 g); 0.5% (50
g); 1% (50 g, 65 g)
Ointment, topical: 0.1% (42.5 g); 0.25% (42.5 g); 0.4% (60 g); 0.5% (42.5 g);
1% (42.5 g) |
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