Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
topical cream
- coal tar 10% solution (equivalent to 2% coal tar)
topical ointment
- 2%
topical gel
- 0.5% (Thera-Gel)
- 2.9% (DHS)
topical lotion
- coal tar 25% solution (equivalent to 5% coal tar)
- coal tar 5% solution (equivalent to 1% coal tar)
soap
- coal tar 2.5% solution (equivalent to 0.5% coal tar)
topical solution
- coal tar 15% solution (equivalent to 2.3% coal tar)
Psoriasis & Seborrhea Dermatitis
Apply sparingly to affected area up to 4 times/day; decrease frequency to 2-3 times/week once improvement observed
Product content varies, check individual labeling
Safety & efficacy not established
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Stinging/burning of skin
Desquamation
Folliculitis
Photosensitivity
Coal tar may cause discoloration or staining
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Cautions
Topical use only
Avoid contact with eyes
Avoid inflamed or broken skin
Avoid exposure to sunlight (coal tar photosensitizing)
Keep away from fire/flame (coal tar is flammable)
Pregnancy & Lactation
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.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Keratolytic agent; elicits antiseptic & antibacterial properties
