GENERIC NAME: COAL TAR SHAMPOO - TOPICAL (kole tar)

BRAND NAME(S): Denorex, Neutrogena T/Gel, Pentrax, Tegrin, Zetar

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Coal tar shampoo is used to treat the itching and skin flaking/irritation caused by certain skin conditions of the head and scalp (e.g., dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis).

HOW TO USE: Apply this medication onto the hair and scalp usually twice weekly; or as directed by your doctor. Shake the bottle well before each application/shampoo. Wet your hair thoroughly with water and rub the shampoo into lather on your hair and scalp. Rinse your hair well with water and repeat. This medicated shampoo is for use on the scalp and hair only. Do not use if you have open skin (e.g., sores/wounds) on your scalp. Avoid getting any of this shampoo in your eyes. If eye contact occurs, rinse your eyes thoroughly with water. If eye irritation persists or worsens, contact your doctor promptly. Avoid getting any of this shampoo on your clothes. This product may stain your clothing.

SIDE EFFECTS: Minor skin/scalp irritation or darkened/stained skin may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: large and/or painful skin sores/pimples on the scalp. An allergic reaction to this product is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other skin conditions, any allergies. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure or wear protective clothing or a hat when outdoors. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medicated shampoo. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Rash - Learn about rash causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Common skin rashes include poison ivy, hives, shingles, eczema, contact dermatitis, ringworm, psoriasis and impetigo.
• Psoriasis - Read about psoriasis symptoms, causes, treatment information, medication and types: vulgaris, guttate, inverse and pustular. Red dry flakes, skin scales and plaques of raised skin are common symptoms.
• Dandruff (Seborrhea) - Dandruff is a form of skin inflammation which has no known cause and can appear at any time, from infancy to old age. Learn more about dandruff symptoms and treatment on MedicineNet.com.

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