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This medicine contains important and useful components, as it consists of
Coal Tar is available in the market in concentration.
Coal Tar
Before using Coal Tar, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially for individuals with specific skin conditions, or those taking other medications. Important precautions include:
- Sun Sensitivity: Coal tar can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Patients should avoid prolonged sun exposure or use sunscreen when exposed to the sun. Coal tar may also cause photosensitivity reactions such as redness or irritation after sun exposure.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Coal tar is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when applied topically, but its use should be limited and discussed with a healthcare provider.
- Skin Conditions: Individuals with open wounds, skin infections, or broken skin should avoid using coal tar unless instructed by a doctor, as it may irritate damaged skin.
- Allergies: Some people may experience allergic reactions to coal tar, including redness, itching, or burning. A patch test is recommended before using the product on a larger area.
- Use on Sensitive Skin: People with sensitive skin should use coal tar cautiously, as it can sometimes lead to irritation or dryness, especially when used for prolonged periods.
Coal Tar is commonly used for the treatment of various dermatological conditions, including:
- Psoriasis: Coal tar is widely used to treat psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover. It can help reduce scaling, inflammation, and redness.
- Eczema and Dermatitis: It is effective in managing eczema and seborrheic dermatitis, providing relief from itching and inflammation.
- Dandruff and Scalp Conditions: Coal tar is often found in shampoos designed to treat dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, and itchy, flaky scalp conditions.
- Lichen Simplex Chronicus: Coal tar is used in the treatment of lichen simplex chronicus, a condition where a person develops thick, scaly patches of skin due to chronic scratching or rubbing.
- Other Skin Irritations: It can also be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, itching, and other skin disorders characterized by excessive skin cell production.
Coal tar should not be used in the following circumstances:
- Allergic Reactions: People who are allergic to coal tar or any of its components should not use this treatment. Symptoms of an allergy may include itching, swelling, or redness at the application site.
- Open Wounds or Broken Skin: Coal tar should not be applied to open wounds, cuts, or infected skin unless directed by a healthcare provider, as it can irritate the skin and delay healing.
- Pregnancy (in large amounts): While topical coal tar is generally safe during pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid large amounts or use during the first trimester. Always consult with a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
- Children: Coal tar is not recommended for young children (particularly infants) unless prescribed by a healthcare professional due to the risk of skin irritation or other adverse effects.
While coal tar is generally well-tolerated, there are some potential side effects that patients should be aware of:
- Skin Irritation: The most common side effect is skin irritation at the site of application. Symptoms may include redness, itching, or burning sensations.
- Photosensitivity: Coal tar can cause increased photosensitivity, making the skin more susceptible to sunburn. It is important to avoid direct sunlight or use sunscreen when outdoors.
- Staining of Skin or Clothing: Coal tar can stain both skin and clothing, leaving a dark discoloration. This can be difficult to remove, so patients should be careful when applying it.
- Dryness or Peeling: Prolonged use of coal tar can lead to skin dryness or peeling in some individuals. This effect is more likely if it is used in high concentrations or for extended periods.
- Skin Aging: Long-term use of coal tar may potentially contribute to premature skin aging or cause thin skin if overused.
If any of these side effects are severe or persistent, patients should consult their healthcare provider for further guidance.
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Coal tar works through several mechanisms to treat various skin conditions:
- Anti-inflammatory: Coal tar helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators in the skin. This can help alleviate the symptoms of conditions like psoriasis, where inflammation is a key factor.
- Slows Skin Cell Growth: Coal tar slows down the rapid production of skin cells, a hallmark of psoriasis. It works by interfering with the abnormal growth and shedding of skin cells, reducing the scales and plaques associated with conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
- Keratinization: Coal tar helps normalize the process of keratinization (skin cell production), which is often disrupted in disorders like psoriasis. This reduces the buildup of dead skin cells, helping to control the condition.
- Antimicrobial: Coal tar has mild antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the presence of bacteria on the skin and prevent secondary infections in affected areas.
- Itch Relief: Coal tar also provides relief from itching associated with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions by decreasing histamine release and soothing the irritated skin.
Coal Tar generally has minimal interactions with other medications, but it may interact with certain products or treatments:
- Topical Medications: When used alongside other topical treatments for dermatitis or eczema, it is best to apply coal tar at different times or consult a healthcare provider to avoid any potential interaction or irritation.
- Sun Exposure: Since coal tar increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, using it with other photosensitizing medications or products that also make the skin more sensitive to UV light can increase the risk of sunburn or skin damage. Examples include medications like retinoids or antibiotics.
- Cosmetic Products: Coal tar may interact with some cosmetic products that contain alcohol or astringents, potentially increasing dryness or irritation when used together. It is best to avoid applying products that contain harsh chemicals in combination with coal tar treatments.
The typical dosage for Coal Tar depends on the specific formulation and condition being treated:
- Psoriasis or Eczema: Coal tar is usually applied once or twice daily to the affected area. It is important to gently rub the coal tar into the skin and avoid applying excessive amounts.
- Dandruff: In shampoos, coal tar is generally used 2-3 times a week or as directed by a healthcare provider. Apply the shampoo to damp hair and leave it on for several minutes before rinsing.
- General Skin Conditions: For conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or lichen simplex chronicus, coal tar should be applied as directed, usually once or twice daily to the affected area, or as per the doctor's recommendation.
Coal tar is generally not recommended for children unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. For psoriasis, eczema, or seborrheic dermatitis, a lower concentration is often preferred for pediatric patients.
- If prescribed, it should be applied once daily or as directed by the healthcare provider to the affected area. As with adults, it is important to avoid excessive application to minimize potential side effects.
Since coal tar is topical, there are no specific renal dose adjustments needed for patients with renal impairment. However, individuals with severe kidney disease should consult their healthcare provider before using coal tar, especially for long-term use, as prolonged absorption could pose a risk.