coal tar solution at a glance
Medicine class
Topical tar; antipruritic and keratoplastic treatment
Licensed use
Psoriasis of the skin and scalp
Sunlight
Treated skin is more sensitive to sunlight; avoid direct sun after application
Fire safety
Keep treated skin, clothing and bedding away from smoking and naked flames
What is coal tar solution used for?
The selected product is licensed for:
Psoriasis affecting the skin
Psoriasis affecting the scalp
How does coal tar solution work?
Coal tar slows excessive skin-cell production, helps loosen scale and reduces inflammation and itching. Its activity involves several components rather than one defined molecular target.
How to take coal tar solution
For use on the skin or scalp only.
Shake the bottle before use.
Clean the affected skin, spread a thin layer over the lesions, massage gently and allow it to dry.
Wash your hands after applying it unless your hands are being treated.
Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes. Rinse promptly with water or saline after accidental eye contact.
Do not apply to genital or rectal areas, broken or infected skin, or inflamed, weeping wounds. Use cautiously on the face.
Avoid direct sunlight on treated skin. Keep treated skin and fabrics away from cigarettes, flames and other ignition sources.
coal tar solution side effects
Common or expected effects
- Skin irritation
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Acne-like eruptions
- Dry skin
- Delayed local allergic reactions caused by some excipients
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe allergic reaction with breathing difficulty or swelling of the face, lips, mouth or throat
- Severe or persistent skin inflammation, blistering or marked sunburn
coal tar solution in pregnancy
Safety evidence is limited. Product information advises avoiding coal tar during the first trimester and restricting exposure later in pregnancy. Discuss its use with a doctor or pharmacist.
coal tar solution while breastfeeding
Safety evidence is limited, although harmful effects are not anticipated with proper use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use so exposure can be minimised.
coal tar solution interactions
No medicinal-product interactions are listed for the selected lotion, but light-based treatment needs specific consideration.
Ultraviolet B phototherapy
Combined coal tar and UVB treatment has been associated with increased skin-cancer risk; coordinate use with the dermatology team.
Other medicines
No specific medicine interactions are known for the selected lotion.
Common questions about coal tar solution
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can it be used on the scalp?
Yes. The selected lotion is licensed for scalp psoriasis and psoriasis elsewhere on the skin.
Can it be used on the face?
Only with caution. Avoid the eyes and ask a clinician or pharmacist if facial treatment is intended.
What if it gets in my eyes?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.