coal tar (Tegrin, Estar, Balnetar, Zetar, Pentrax, Sebutone, LCD, Pix Carbonis, Fototar)

Introduction

Shampoo. Tradenames: Tegrin, Pentrax, Polytar

Gel: Tradename: Estar. Coal tar extract bath: Tradenames: Balnetar, Zetar.

Indications

Shampoo

• dandruff
• scalp psoriasis
• seborrheic dermatitis

Gel

• relief of itching & scaling associated with psoriasis

Coal tar extract bath

• relief of itching & scaling associated with psoriasis

Contraindications

Caution:

• avoid contact with eyes, genital or rectal area
• avoid direct sunlight exposure

pregnancy-category: ?

safety in lactation: ?

Dosage

Shampoo

• apply shampoo daily
• alternative instructions:
  • massage small amount into wet hair
  • rinse
  • apply a second time & leave for 5-10 minutes
  • rinse thoroughly
  • use at least twice weekly

Gel

• apply to affected area QD-QID

Coal tar extract bath

• 1-3 capfuls in bath
• soak for 10-20 minutes

Shampoo: 0.43% & 0.5% coal tar.

Gel: 5%. 3 oz.

Solution: (Carbonis detergens, LCD):

• 2.5%. 7.5 oz.
• 300 mg/mL. 6oz.

Adverse effects

Shampoo

• discoloration of light hair
• dermatitis: skin irritation, itching
• folliculitis
• staining of the skin & hair

Gel

• skin irritation
• itching

safe; no increased risk of cancer

Drug interactions

• MAO inhibitors
• epinephrine

Mechanism of action

• antipruritic agent
• anti-eczematous agent
• keratoplastic agent

More general terms

• antipruritic agent

Additional terms

• petroleum tar

Component of

• tar & ultraviolet (UV) B light (Goeckerman treatment)
• coal tar/salicylic acid/zinc pyrithione
• coal tar/salicylic acid
• coal tar/piperonyl butoxide/pyrethrin
• coal tar/menthol/salicylic acid
• coal tar/menthol
• clobetasol/coal tar
• coal tar/salicylic acid/sulfur