anthralin (Lasan, Anthra-Derm, Drithocreme)

Introduction

Tradenames: Lasan, Anthra-Derm, Drithocreme.

Indications

• psoriasis
• alopecia areata

Dosage

topical: apply QID

Ointment: 0.1%, 0.25%, 0.4%, 0.5%.

Cream: 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.25%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 1%.

Adverse effects

• not common (1-10%)
  • transient primary irritation of uninvolved skin
  • temporary discoloration of hair & fingernails
  • may stain skin, hair, fabrics
• uncommon (< 1%)
  • rash, excessive irritation

Mechanism of action

• anthralin is an unstable molecule, with an oxidizing center at C10 (center ring para to C=0
• oxidation leads to violet-brown discoloration of clothing
• the mechanism of the effect of anthralin in psoriasis is unknown, but it inhibits mitochondrial electron transport

More general terms

• hydrocarbon
• ketone
• phenol

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=2202
• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=10187