Selenium Sulfide Foam or Lotion

Selenium sulfide lotion treats skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) and psoriasis. These conditions can cause thick, scaly areas of skin. This medication is a lotion that you apply to your affected skin as directed. Make sure you wash your hands before and after using this lotion.

What is this medication?

SELENIUM SULFIDE (se LEE nee um suhl fahyd) treats fungal or yeast infections of the skin. It may also be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes dry, flaky, and itchy skin. It belongs to a group of medications called antifungals. It will not treat infections caused by bacteria or viruses.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Exsel, Tersi Foam

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Large areas of burned or damaged skin
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to selenium sulfide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Shake well before using. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not get this medication in the eyes. If you do, rinse the eyes out with plenty of cool tap water. Avoid use of this medication in the genital area. Do not use on inflamed or broken skin. Do not use your medication more often than directed or for a longer period of time than ordered by your care team. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.

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.

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What if I miss a dose?

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.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without telling 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.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

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 damage jewelry. Remove jewelry before using this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skinSide effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
  • Change in hair color or texture
  • Hair loss
  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

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.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F).

This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.

Get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

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.

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