Look Up > Drugs > Selenium Sulfide
Selenium Sulfide
Pronunciation
U.S. Brand Names
Generic Available
Pharmacological Index
Use
Pregnancy Risk Factor
Contraindications
Warnings/Precautions
Adverse Reactions
Overdosage/Toxicology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics
Usual Dosage
Patient Information
Nursing Implications
Dosage Forms
References

Pronunciation
(se LEE nee um SUL fide)

U.S. Brand Names
Exsel®; Head & Shoulders® Intensive Treatment [OTC]; Selsun®; Selsun Blue®[OTC]; Selsun Gold® for Women [OTC]

Generic Available

Yes


Pharmacological Index

Topical Skin Product


Use

Treatment of itching and flaking of the scalp associated with dandruff, to control scalp seborrheic dermatitis; treatment of tinea versicolor


Pregnancy Risk Factor

C


Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to selenium or any component


Warnings/Precautions

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


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


Overdosage/Toxicology

Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea


Mechanism of Action

May block the enzymes involved in growth of epithelial tissue


Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics

Absorption: Topical: Not absorbed through intact skin, but can be absorbed through damaged skin

Elimination: Urine, feces, lungs, skin


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


Patient Information

Topical formulations are for external use only; notify physician if condition persists or worsens; avoid contact with eyes; thoroughly rinse after application


Nursing Implications

Notify physician if condition persists or worsens


Dosage Forms

Lotion: 2.5% (120 mL)

Shampoo: 1% (120 mL, 210 mL, 240 mL, 330 mL); 2.5% (120 mL)


References

Lester RS, "Topical Formulary for the Pediatrician," Pediatr Clin North Am, 1983, 30(4):749-65.


Copyright © 1978-2000 Lexi-Comp Inc. All Rights Reserved