Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
salicylic acid/sulfur shampoo
shampoo
- 2%/2%
cleanser
- 1.5%/2%
Seborrhea
Shampoo: Apply to wet hair/scalp, lather, then rinse well; use daily or every other day; 1-2 treatments per week may maintain control
Cleanser: Use daily or every other day
Safety & efficacy not established
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Stinging/burning of scalp
Desquamation
High concentrations (>10%) may cause muscle cramps, dizziness, vomiting, headache
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Cautions
Topical use only
Avoid contact with eyes
Children < 2 years more sensitive to sulfur than adults
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; breaks down keratin and promotes skin peeling
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: 1% absorbed
Metabolism: Reduced to hydrogen sulfate
