salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

• Keratolytic Action: salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic agent, which means it helps to soften and loosen the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It promotes the shedding of dead cells of skin and helps to remove scales and flakes from the scalp. 
• Anti-inflammatory Action: coal tar, derived from coal, has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce itching, redness, and inflammation associated with scalp conditions. 
• Antifungal and Antiproliferative Action: coal tar also exhibits antifungal properties, which can help in treating fungal infections that may contribute to scalp conditions. Additionally, it has an antiproliferative effect on the rapid growth of skin cells, which is commonly observed in conditions like psoriasis. 

The combination of salicylic acid and coal tar in shampoo provides a synergistic effect, targeting both the keratolytic and anti-inflammatory aspects of scalp disorders. This helps to relieve symptoms and improve the overall health and appearance of the scalp. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Desquamation 

burning/Stinging of scalp 

coal tar can cause staining and discoloration 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning : 

salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo does not typically carry a black box warning. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo should not be used in individuals who have known allergies or hypersensitivity to salicylic acid, coal tar, or any other ingredients in the shampoo. It is important to avoid shampoo on open wounds, broken skin, or areas of the scalp that are inflamed or infected. Additionally, the use of salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo should be avoided in individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically recommended by a healthcare professional. If there are any underlying medical conditions, it is important to inform your healthcare professional before using salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo to ensure it is safe.  

Caution: 

• Skin Sensitivity: Some individuals may be more sensitive to salicylic acid or coal tar, which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. If there is any itching, redness, or irritation, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. 
• Eye Contact: Avoid getting the shampoo in contact with your eyes, as it can cause eye irritation. 
• Sun Sensitivity: salicylic acid can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. It is advisable to protect your scalp from excessive sun exposure or use sunscreen when going outside. 
• Staining: coal tar can stain fabric and light-coloured hair. Take precautions to prevent staining by thoroughly rinsing the shampoo out of your hair and avoiding contact with clothing or bedding. 
• Other Skin Conditions: If there are other skin conditions or scalp disorders, such as eczema or psoriasis, consult a healthcare professional before using salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo to ensure it is suitable for your specific condition. 
• Children and Elderly: The use of salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo in children or the elderly under caution, as they may be more susceptible to skin irritation or other adverse effects.

Comorbidities: 

• Open Wounds or Broken Skin: salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo should not be used on open wounds, cuts, or broken skin as it may cause irritation or discomfort.  
• Scalp Infections: If you have an active scalp infection, such as fungal or bacterial infection, it is important to treat the infection first before using salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo. Using the shampoo on an infected scalp may worsen the condition or interfere with the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment. 
• Allergic Reactions: Individuals with known allergies to salicylates, coal tar, or any other ingredients in the shampoo should avoid its use. Allergic reactions may range from mild skin irritation to more severe reactions, including hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. 
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally safe. While the risk of systemic absorption is generally low, it is important to know the potential effects on the developing fetus or nursing infant. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: Pregnancy category: C 

Lactation: unknown  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

salicylic Acid: 

• Mechanism of Action: salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that works by promoting the shedding of dead skin cells from the scalp. It helps to soften and loosen the scales, reduce itching, and improve the appearance of conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. 

coal Tar: 

• Mechanism of Action: coal tar is derived from coal and contains various compounds with anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itch), and antifungal properties. The mechanism of action is exactly unknown, but it is known to inhibit DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, reduce inflammation, and suppress the abnormal growth of skin cells.

Pharmacodynamics: 

salicylic Acid: 

• Keratolytic Action: salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic agent by disrupting the keratinized layer of the scalp. It softens and loosens the outer layer of the skin, promoting the shedding of dead skin cells. This helps to reduce the buildup of scales and flakes associated with conditions like dandruff and psoriasis. 
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: salicylic acid also exhibits mild anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce scalp inflammation and redness. 

coal Tar: 

• Anti-proliferative Action: coal tar has been shown to inhibit the abnormal growth of skin cells by suppressing DNA synthesis and cell proliferation. This action helps to slow down the excessive production of skin cells, which is characteristic of conditions like psoriasis. 
• Anti-inflammatory and Antipruritic Effects: coal tar possesses anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties, which can help alleviate scalp itching, redness, and irritation associated with various scalp conditions. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

• salicylic Acid: When applied topically, salicylic acid can be absorbed through the skin. It can penetrate the stratum corneum (outer layer of the skin) and reach the underlying layers, including the scalp.  
• coal Tar: coal tar is also capable of being absorbed through the skin, although the extent of absorption can vary. Factors such as the concentration of coal tar in the shampoo and the condition of the skin can affect its absorption. 

Distribution 

• salicylic Acid: Once absorbed, salicylic acid can distribute throughout the tissues. However, its distribution is primarily localized to the site of application, such as the scalp, where it exerts its effects. 
• coal Tar: The distribution of coal tar following topical application is also primarily localized to the site of application, such as the scalp. 

Metabolism 

• salicylic Acid: salicylic acid undergoes metabolism in the body, in the liver. It is metabolized by enzymes into various metabolites, including salicyluric acid and gentisic acid, which are eventually eliminated from the body through urine. 
• coal Tar: coal tar is not extensively metabolized in the body. It primarily undergoes excretion without significant metabolic transformation. 

Elimination and excretion 

• salicylic Acid: The metabolites of salicylic acid, such as salicyluric acid and gentisic acid, are primarily eliminated through the kidneys via urine. The elimination half-life of salicylic acid can vary but is short. 
• coal Tar: coal tar is eliminated from the body primarily through excretion via the skin and, to a lesser extent, through urine and feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Wet hair and scalp with warm water. 
• Apply a sufficient amount of salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo to your scalp, focusing on the areas affected by the condition you are treating (such as dandruff or psoriasis). 
• Massage the shampoo into scalp, working it into a lather. Make sure to cover the affected areas. 
• Leave the shampoo on scalp for the recommended duration, usually a few minutes. Check the product instructions for the specific recommended time. 
• Rinse hair and scalp thoroughly with the water to remove all the shampoo. 
• Repeat the process if necessary, following the instructions provided with the specific shampoo product. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo 

Pronounced: (suh-LIS-uh-lik A-sid / kohl-TAR SHAM-poo)  

Why do we use salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo? 

• Dandruff: salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo helps to control and reduce the symptoms of dandruff, such as flaking, itching, and scalp irritation. 
• Psoriasis: It can be used as an adjunct treatment for scalp psoriasis, helping to remove scales, reduce inflammation, and alleviate itching. 
• Seborrheic dermatitis: salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo can help manage symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and causes flaking, redness, and itching. 
• Scalp acne: It can be used to treat acne breakouts on the scalp by exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing inflammation. 
• Scalp folliculitis: salicylic acid/coal tar shampoo may help alleviate symptoms of scalp folliculitis, a condition characterized by inflamed hair follicles, itchiness, and pustules on the scalp.