Anthralin is a topical cream that treats psoriasis. This condition causes thick, scaly areas of skin with itchiness and discomfort. You can apply this cream to your affected skin as directed. Follow the instructions to use this cream properly. Make sure you wear gloves to protect your hands from staining.
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ANTHRALIN (AN thrah lin) treats psoriasis. It works by decreasing inflammation and slowing down the growth of skin cells. This reduces redness and swelling, as well as scaling of the skin.
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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Dritho-Creme HP, Dritho-Scalp, Micanol, Psoriatec, ZITHRANOL-RR
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. If you are treating your hands, only wash your hands before use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use it more often than directed. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
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Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your care team.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medication may cause white fabric to turn yellow. Wash yellowed fabrics with laundry detergent.
This medication may stain the tub or shower. Rinse the tub or shower with lukewarm water after bathing and then use a cleanser to remove any shampoo from the surface of the tub or shower.
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F).
Get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.