Coal Tar

Psoriasis, Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Topical Apply a thin layer of Cream two or four times a day onto the affected areas, massage in gently and leave to dry Decrease frequency to 2-3 times/week once improvement is observed

Safety & efficacy not established

Application to inflamed or broken skin. Hypersensitivity.

Use with caution on the face, near eyes and mucous membranes. Do not apply to genital or rectal areas. Avoid use in patient with exacerbation of psoriasis. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and sunlamps for at least 24-72 hr after application. May stain clothes and hair. If undergoing Goeckerman treatment, all coal tar preparation should be removed from skin before exposure to radiation.

C Pregnancy category: C Lactation: Unknown

Frequency Not Defined Stinging/burning of skin Desquamation Folliculitis Photosensitivity Coal tar may cause discoloration or staining

Coal tar has antipruritic, keratoplastic and keratolytic properties. It slows down excessive epidermal cell turnover and is often used topically either alone or in combination with other drugs (e.g. salicyclic acid, sulfur) in conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.