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coal tar topical (Fototar, Medotar, Oxipor VHC, Polytar Soap, Psorent, Psoriasin, Taraphilic)

 

Classes: Keratolytic Agents

Dosing and uses of Fototar, Medotar (coal tar topical)

 

Adult dosage forms and strengths

topical cream

  • coal tar 10% solution (equivalent to 2% coal tar)

topical ointment

  • 2%

topical geL

  • 0.5% (Thera-Gel)
  • 2.9% (DHS)

topical lotion

  • coal tar 25% solution (equivalent to 5% coal tar)
  • coal tar 5% solution (equivalent to 1% coal tar)

soap

  • coal tar 2.5% solution (equivalent to 0.5% coal tar)

topical solution

  • coal tar 15% solution (equivalent to 2.3% coal tar)

 

Psoriasis & Seborrhea Dermatitis

Apply sparingly to affected area up to 4 times/day; decrease frequency to 2-3 times/week once improvement observed

Product content varies, check individual labeling

 

Pediatric dosage forms and strengths

Safety & efficacy not established

 

Fototar, Medotar (coal tar topical) adverse (side) effects

Frequency not defined

Stinging/burning of skin

Desquamation

Folliculitis

Photosensitivity

Coal tar may cause discoloration or staining

 

Warnings

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

 

Cautions

Topical use only

Avoid contact with eyes

Avoid inflamed or broken skin

Avoid exposure to sunlight (coal tar photosensitizing)

Keep away from fire/flame (coal tar is flammable)

 

Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy category: C

Lactation: Unknown

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs

 

Pregnancy categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

NA: Information not available.

 

Pharmacology of Fototar, Medotar (coal tar topical)

Mechanism of action

Keratolytic agent; elicits antiseptic & antibacterial properties