coal tar, distilled at a glance
Medicine class
Topical tar antipsoriatic.
Licensed uses
Scalp psoriasis; the cream is also licensed for sub-acute and chronic psoriasis affecting skin, scalp or flexures.
Application
Use only on affected skin or scalp. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes; wash hands after applying the cream.
Practical effects
It may smell strongly and can occasionally stain skin, hair or fabric.
What is coal tar, distilled used for?
The selected products are licensed for topical treatment of psoriasis.
Scalp Lotion Shampoo: scalp psoriasis.
Cream: sub-acute and chronic psoriasis affecting the skin, scalp or flexures.
How does coal tar, distilled work?
Coal tar is a complex mixture whose precise action is uncertain. It appears to slow excessive division of skin cells. Lecithin in the selected formulations softens scale and may improve contact with affected skin.
How to take coal tar, distilled
For the shampoo, wet the hair thoroughly, gently massage it into the affected scalp to form a lather, then rinse with warm water. Apply the cream to affected skin or scalp. Avoid eyes, mucous membranes, genital or rectal areas, cuts and grazes, and wash your hands afterwards.
External use only.
Replace the cap after use and avoid spillage.
Do not smoke or approach naked flames after using the cream; contaminated fabric burns more easily.
coal tar, distilled side effects
Common or expected effects
- Rarely, skin irritation, acne-like eruptions or increased sensitivity to sunlight may occur; stop using the product and seek advice.
- Skin, hair or fabric may occasionally become stained.
coal tar, distilled in pregnancy
The selected product information specifies no special pregnancy precautions, but formal safety trials have not been conducted. Ask a doctor or pharmacist whether the product and treatment area are appropriate.
coal tar, distilled while breastfeeding
The selected products may be used while breastfeeding according to their product information, although formal safety trials are lacking. Seek professional advice before applying treatment near the breast or where an infant could contact treated skin.
coal tar, distilled interactions
No interactions with other medicines are known for the selected products.
Common questions about coal tar, distilled
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is coal tar, distilled a steroid?
No. It is a topical tar antipsoriatic that acts differently from corticosteroids.
Can children use coal tar, distilled?
The selected cream and shampoo are licensed for children, adults and older people, provided no contraindication applies.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.