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Pronunciation |
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(se
LEE nee um SUL
fide) |
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U.S. Brand
Names |
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Exsel®; Head & Shoulders®
Intensive Treatment
[OTC]; Selsun®; Selsun Blue®[OTC]; Selsun Gold® for
Women
[OTC] |
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Generic
Available |
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Yes |
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Pharmacological Index |
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Topical Skin Product |
|
|
Use |
|
Treatment of itching and flaking of the scalp associated with dandruff, to
control scalp seborrheic dermatitis; treatment of tinea
versicolor |
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Pregnancy Risk
Factor |
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C |
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Contraindications |
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Known hypersensitivity to selenium or any component |
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Warnings/Precautions |
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Do not use on damaged skin to avoid any systemic toxicity; avoid topical use
in very young children; safety of topical in infants has not been
established |
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Adverse
Reactions |
|
>10%: Dermatologic: Unusual dryness or oiliness of scalp
1% to 10%:
Central nervous system: Lethargy
Dermatologic: Alopecia or hair discoloration
Gastrointestinal: Vomiting following long-term use on damaged skin, abdominal
pain, garlic breath
Local: Irritation
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Tremor
Miscellaneous: Diaphoresis |
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Overdosage/Toxicology |
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Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea |
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Mechanism of
Action |
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May block the enzymes involved in growth of epithelial
tissue |
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Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics |
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Absorption: Topical: Not absorbed through intact skin, but can be absorbed
through damaged skin
Elimination: Urine, feces, lungs, skin |
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|
Usual Dosage |
|
Topical:
Tinea versicolor: Apply the 2.5% lotion to affected area and lather with
small amounts of water; leave on skin for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly;
apply every day for 7 days |
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Patient
Information |
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Topical formulations are for external use only; notify physician if condition
persists or worsens; avoid contact with eyes; thoroughly rinse after
application |
|
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Nursing
Implications |
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Notify physician if condition persists or worsens |
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Dosage Forms |
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Lotion: 2.5% (120 mL)
Shampoo: 1% (120 mL, 210 mL, 240 mL, 330 mL); 2.5% (120 mL)
|
|
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References |
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Lester RS, "Topical Formulary for the Pediatrician," Pediatr Clin North
Am, 1983, 30(4):749-65. |
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Copyright © 1978-2000 Lexi-Comp Inc. All Rights Reserved
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