coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid at a glance
Medicine type
Keratolytic, antipruritic and mild antiseptic scalp treatment
Licensed uses
Scalp psoriasis, eczema, seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff
Form
Ointment applied to affected scalp and shampooed out
Fire safety
Treated fabrics burn more easily; keep them away from cigarettes and naked flames
What is coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid used for?
Licensed for scaly disorders affecting the scalp.
Scalp psoriasis
Scalp eczema
Seborrhoeic dermatitis
Dandruff
How does coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid work?
Salicylic acid and sulfur loosen and shed thickened surface skin. Coal tar reduces itching and abnormal scaling and has weak antiseptic activity. Sulfur also has weak antiseptic and antiparasitic properties.
How to take coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid
For external use on the scalp only.
Part the hair and spread the ointment over affected scalp rather than mainly onto the hair.
Rub it in gently and shampoo it out with warm water as directed by the label or prescriber.
Avoid the eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes.
Wash your hands immediately after applying it.
Protect clothing and jewellery because it may stain.
Do not apply to inflamed, broken or infected skin.
coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid side effects
Common or expected effects
- Skin irritation or dermatitis; frequency is not stated
- Inflamed hair follicles or acne-like eruptions; frequency is not stated
- Temporary hair loss or discolouration of skin or hair; frequency is not stated
Get urgent medical advice
- Very rare breathing difficulty or chest tightness associated with bronchospasm
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Rare sunlight-sensitive rash
coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid in pregnancy
Do not use during the third trimester. During the first or second trimester, use should only be considered when clearly necessary following advice from a doctor or pharmacist; evidence for the combined topical product is limited.
coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid while breastfeeding
Avoid use where possible because information about coal tar and sulfur exposure is insufficient. Ask a doctor or pharmacist to recommend a suitable treatment.
coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid interactions
No medicine interactions are listed in the product information. Tell a doctor or pharmacist about other scalp treatments because irritation may be harder to attribute when several topical products are used.
Common questions about coal tar solution + precipitated sulfur + salicylic acid
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is Cocois a shampoo?
No. It is an ointment applied to affected scalp and then shampooed out.
Can children use Cocois?
Children aged 6 to 12 years should use it only under medical supervision. It is not recommended below 6 years.
Can Cocois cause hair loss?
Hair loss has been reported as a possible side effect. Seek advice if it is marked, persistent or concerning.
Is Cocois suitable if I have asthma or an aspirin allergy?
Very rare bronchospasm has been reported in people with asthma or a family history of salicylate hypersensitivity. Check with a pharmacist or prescriber before use and seek urgent help for breathing difficulty.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.