| name | Anthralin |
| classification | Keratolytic, Anti-inflammatory |
| pharmacokinetics | Anthralin is a topical medication. It is not systemically absorbed to a significant degree, although some absorption does occur, especially with skin conditions that are not well-contained or with excessive usage. The primary site of action is local, within the stratum corneum, affecting cell proliferation and inflammation. Excretion is primarily via desquamation. |
| suggested dosage | Dosage and frequency are dependent on the severity and location of the condition. It's crucial to follow the specific recommendations of a dermatologist or healthcare professional. A common starting point is 0.1% to 0.5% concentration applied once or twice daily, and the frequency/concentration is gradually adjusted as needed. |
| indications | Anthralin is primarily used in the treatment of plaque psoriasis. It can also be used for other skin conditions, but these uses are less common and less well-studied. |
| safety in pregnancy | Limited data is available on the use of anthralin during pregnancy. The drug should be used with caution and only when the potential benefit outweighs any possible risk to the developing fetus. Consult a healthcare professional regarding the risks and benefits of use during pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Anthralin is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. The potential for systemic absorption and transfer into breast milk is unknown and thus, alternatives should be explored if possible. |
| side effects | | 1 | Skin irritation | | 2 | Skin dryness | | 3 | Burning sensation | | 4 | Pain | | 5 | Local redness | | 6 | Discomfort or itching | | 7 | Skin discoloration or staining (permanent in some cases) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity or allergy to anthralin or any of its components. | | 2 | Open or weeping skin lesions | | 3 | Severe skin conditions | | 4 | Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should avoid anthralin or discuss the risk/benefit profile with their healthcare provider. |
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| interactions | Limited information is available regarding drug interactions with topical anthralin. However, potential interactions with other topical medications used for skin conditions should be discussed with a physician or pharmacist. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Anthralin can stain the skin and clothing. Care must be taken to avoid contact with other areas of the body. | | 2 | Patients should use gloves and protective clothing when applying the medication. | | 3 | Avoid application to broken or damaged skin. | | 4 | Monitor skin reactions carefully. | | 5 | Discontinue use if irritation or other serious adverse effects are observed. | | 6 | Do not use anthralin on areas of skin that are already irritated or inflamed. | | 7 | It is essential to apply the medication precisely as prescribed, and to follow the instructions of your dermatologist carefully. |
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| additional informations | Anthralin is applied to the affected area, and the skin is carefully cleaned to avoid other irritations or infections. The amount and duration of use are gradually increased as tolerated by the patient. Anthralin should be used only under the supervision of a dermatologist or healthcare professional to assess the best treatment plan for the specific skin condition. |
| patient specific considerations | | age | 25 years old - No specific age-related cautions are needed for topical use in a healthy adult, but the physician should consider the full clinical picture. | | weight | 70 kg - No specific weight-related concerns for topical application; consider the patient's general health. |
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