Dithranol

Indications

Subacute and chronic psoriasis.

Dosage

Topical application of 0.1% ointment /paste (0.05% in very fair patients): Apply onto the affected lesions for a few hour before washing off. May increase strength gradually as required to 0.5-1% and the duration of contact extended to overnight periods or longer. Short contact Therapy : Apply in a soft base to the lesions for up to 60 minutes daily before washing off. May increase strength gradually to 0.1-2%. Protect surrounding unaffected skin by applying white soft paraffin.

Contra-Indications

Acute or pustular psoriasis, Inflamed skin, hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Avoid use on face, skin flexures, inner thights, upper arms and genitals. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membrance. Pregnancy : Use with cauation (Category C). Lactation : No experimental evidence to support the safety, however no adverse effect reported.

Side Effects

Burning sensation and irritation especially on perilesional skin. Hair and skin discoloration.