coal tar bath products (OTC)

Frequency Not Defined

Stinging/burning of skin

Dermatologic dermatitis

Folliculitis

Irritation

Photosensitivity

Desquamation

Coal tar may cause discoloration or staining

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Cautions

Topical use only

Avoid contact with eyes

Avoid contact with rectal/genital areas

Avoid inflamed or broken skin

Avoid exposure to sunlight (coal tar photosensitizing)

Keep away from fire/flame (coal tar is flammable)

Pregnancy category: C

Lactation: Unknown

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

Mechanism of Action

Keratolytic agent; elicits antiseptic & antibacterial properties