Dithranol Topical Cream

Active Ingredient: Dithranol

What is in this leaflet

This leaflet contains some information about your medication. It does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist. All medicines have risks and benefits. Your doctor has weighed the risks of you taking this medication against the positive benefits they expect it will have for you. If you have any concerns about taking this medicine, please contact us again or speak with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Keep this leaflet with the medicine as you may need to read it again in the future.

What it is used for

This medication contains the active ingredient dithranol. Dithranol is used to treat psoriasis and clear the plaques as much as possible. Psoriasis is caused by cells in the outer layer of the skin proliferating faster than normal. This causes the older and dead skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin, leading to scaly patches. Dithranol helps to control psoriasis by slowing down the production of new skin cells.

Before you apply dithranol

When you must NOT take it:

  • If you are allergic to the active ingredient
  • If the medication is expired or has not been stored correctly
  • If any of the areas of psoriasis are sore, inflamed or have blisters filled with pus. This is more severe forms of psoriasis and should be treated by a skin specialist

Let us know if you are:

  • Pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding
  • Suffer from any other medical conditions or take any other medications
  • If you are using any other topical medications

How to apply dithranol

How much to apply

Please apply dithranol as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Refer to the directions on the product label if required. There are several strengths of dithranol and it is ideal to use the lowest-effective strength to avoid irritation/burning of the skin. Continue treatment daily until the skin feels entirely clear. It normally takes 6-12 weeks to clear the patches.

How to apply it

Apply a thin layer to areas of psoriasis once a day before a shower or bath. After 10-30 minutes, remove the dithranol. Use cotton wool, soaked in oil or a mild detergent (not soap), and then shower or bathe.

Keep it off normal skin and take care not to get into the eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after use otherwise it can burn. Delicate areas such as the face neck, underarm and groin should be treated cautiously, as they are more likely to be irritated.

[Scalp] Comb and wash the hair first and after parting, rub dithranol into the affected area. Shampoo it off after about 30 minutes. Dithranol is not suitable for blond hair as it stains brown or purple.

Avoid exposure to sunlight. Keep the dithranol away from clothes and furniture. Rinse the bath/shower with lukewarm water immediately after showering to wash the dithranol off and use a suitable cleaner (e.g. bleach) to remove any deposit on the surfaces.

It can also stain the skin, and this is harmless and will gradually disappear after treatment is stopped. Do not attempt to scrub the colour from your skin. Any staining of the hair will grow out and can be minimised by careful application to the scalp.

If you forget to apply it

Apply as soon as you remember. Do not double the application to make up for the missed application.

If you take apply too much (overdose)

Immediately contact your doctor, the Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26) or go to the Accident and Emergency at the nearest hospital.

How to report side effects

If you experience any adverse experiences from this medication, you should report it via:

If it is an EMERGENCY call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 or call 000.

Side effects

Please let us or your doctor know as soon as possible if you do not feel well while taking this medication.

Some side effects you may experience include:

  • Skin irritation/redness
  • Itching
  • Burning sensation

If the symptom continues or if it becomes severe, stop using dithranol and see your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

For a full list of possible side effects please contact us.

Storage

Products expire 6 months after preparation. Keep in the original packaging until you need to take your next dose.

Store your medication in a cool, dry place that is below 25°C and away from sunlight.