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Anthralin
Pronunciation
U.S. Brand Names
Generic Available
Canadian Brand Names
Synonyms
Pharmacological Index
Use
Pregnancy Risk Factor
Contraindications
Warnings/Precautions
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
Mechanism of Action
Usual Dosage
Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status
Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment
Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions
Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment
Patient Information
Nursing Implications
Dosage Forms

Pronunciation
(AN thra lin)

U.S. Brand Names
Anthra-Derm®; Drithocreme®; Drithocreme® HP 1%; Dritho-Scalp®; Micanol® Cream

Generic Available

Yes


Canadian Brand Names
Anthraforte®; Anthranol®; Anthrascalp®

Synonyms
Dithranol

Pharmacological Index

Antipsoriatic Agent; Keratolytic Agent


Use

Treatment of psoriasis (quiescent or chronic psoriasis)


Pregnancy Risk Factor

C


Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to anthralin or any component, acute psoriasis (acutely or actively inflamed psoriatic eruptions); use on the face


Warnings/Precautions

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.


Adverse Reactions

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


Drug Interactions

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


Mechanism of Action

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


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)


Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status

None reported


Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment

None reported


Dental Health: Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions

No information available to require special precautions


Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

No effects or complications reported


Patient Information

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.


Nursing Implications

Wear gloves; can discolor skin, hair, or clothes


Dosage Forms

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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