Coal Tar

Coal Tar Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.

Coal tar has antipruritic, keratoplastic and keratolytic properties. It slows down excessive epidermal cell turnover and is often used topically either alone or in combination with other drugs (e.g. salicyclic acid, sulfur) in conditions such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis.

Decrease bacterial growth.

Trade Name Coal Tar
Generic Coal Tar
Coal Tar Other Names Coal tar, Coal tars, Tar, coal
Weight 1.25%, 2%, 2%, 1.25%, 1.5%, 1%, 5%, 2.5%, 5%, 2%, 0.5%, 1%, 12.5%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 5%, 20%
Type Topical cream, topical foam, topical gel, topical lotion, topical oil, topical ointment, topical shampoo, topical soap, topical solution
Protein binding

Intended for local use only, no systemic absorption.

Groups Approved
Therapeutic Class Coal-tar preparations
Manufacturer
Available Country United States
Last Updated: September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am
Coal Tar
Coal Tar

Uses

Coal Tar Cream is used for psoriasis. Soritar Cream has a keratoplastic and antipruritic effect in psoriasis.

Coal Tar is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Dandruff, Psoriasis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis of the Scalp

How Coal Tar works

Coal tar ointment is a keratolytic. It works by slowing bacterial growth and loosening and softening scales and crust.

Dosage

Coal Tar dosage

Adults and children over 12 years of age: Ensure that the lesions are clean. Apply a thin layer of Coal Tar Cream two or three times a day on to the affected areas massage in gently and leave to dry.

For young children under 12 years of age and the elderly: The emulsion may be diluted by mixing it with a few drops of cooled freshly boiled in the palm of the hand.

Side Effects

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Skin irritation, photosensitivity of the skin, Coal Tar Cream may cause acne-like eruptions of the skin. There is an increased risk of skin cancer in psoriatic patients treated with a combination of Coal Tar Cream and UVB radiation has been reported. However epidemiological studies of patients treated with Coal Tar Cream on its own are inconclusive. The risk of toxicity should be taken into account when considering the prescribing this product for the patient.

Toxicity

LD50: Not available.

Food Interaction

No interactions found.

Volume of Distribution

Intended for local use only, no systemic absorption.

Elimination Route

Intended for local use only, no systemic absorption.

Half Life

Intended for local use only, no systemic absorption.

Clearance

Intended for local use only, no systemic absorption.

Elimination Route

Intended for local use only, no systemic absorption.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use

There is no direct evidence of the safety in pregnant and lactating mother. Coal tar preparations have been in use for many years without apparent ill-consequence. No harmful effects on the health of the child is anticipated with the proper use of coal tar. However it is recommended that the use of coal tar in pregnancy and lactation is restricted to intermittent use in low concentrations on a small percentage of body’s surface, use during the first trimester be avoided.

Contraindication

Coal Tar should not be used when a patient has known sensitivity to Coal Tar or any of the other ingredients. If you have folliculitis and acne vulgaris. Coal Tar Cream should not be used on patients who have disease characterised by photosensitivity such as lupus erythematosus or allergy to sunlight. Coal Tar Cream should not be applied to inflamed or broken skin. Warnings and precautions: For topical administration only. Coal Tar Cream may cause skin irritation, should this occur the treatment should be reviewed and if necessary discontinued. Coal Tar enhances photosensitivity of the skin after applying Coal Tar Cream exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided. Use with care near the eyes and mucous membranes. If any emulsion should accidentally enter the eye, flush with normal saline solution or water. Do not apply to genital and rectal areas. Apply with caution to the face do not get in the eyes. Hydrogenated polyoxyl castor oil may cause skin reactions. Methyl and propyl hydroxybenzoates may cause allergic reactions that might be cause a delayed reaction.

Acute Overdose

There is no evidence that an overdose of topical Coal Tar Cream would be harmful other than a hypersensitivity to coal tar. Ingestion of Coal Tar Cream may require gastric lavage depending on the quantity taken and should be treated symptomatically.

Storage Condition

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Innovators Monograph

You find simplified version here Coal Tar

Coal Tar contains Coal Tar see full prescribing information from innovator Coal Tar Monograph, Coal Tar MSDS, Coal Tar FDA label

FAQ

What is Coal Tar used for?

It has both medical and industrial uses. Medicinally it is a topical medication applied to skin to treat psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. It may be used in combination with ultraviolet light therapy. Coal Tar is used primarily for the production of refined chemicals and coal-tar products, such as creosote and coal-tar pitch. Certain preparations of Coal Tar have long been used to treat various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.

How safe is Coal Tar?

Experts generally consider it safe to use. It may cause some side effects, while certain treatments require that they carry a cancer warning in some locations.

How does Coal Tar work?

Coal Tar works by causing the skin to shed dead cells from its top layer and slow down the growth of skin cells.

What are the common side effects of Coal Tar?

Common side effects of Coal Tar are severe stinging, burning, swelling, or other irritation of the treated skin.

Is Coal Tar safe during pregnancy?

Coal Tar is recommended to avoid during the first trimester in humans.

Is Coal Tar safe during breastfeeding?

Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.

How many time can I take Coal Tar?

Apply usually 1 to 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor.

Can I use Coal Tar everyday?

Coal Tar shampoo should be used twice a week for the first 2 weeks, then 1 or 2 times a week thereafter.

Does Coal Tar reduce inflammation?

It can help reduce inflammation and itching.

Can I take Coal Tar for a long time?

Dermatologists have been prescribing Coal Tar for more than 100 years to treat psoriasis, and it is considered safe for long-term use. Like all medicines, some patients should avoid coal tar.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since coal tar topical is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of coal tar topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Who should not take Coal Tar?

You should not use coal tar topical if you are allergic to coal tar. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially: if you are allergic to any drugs; or if you are receiving ultraviolet radiation treatment for your psoriasis.

Is Coal Tar safe for skin?

Coal Tar may stain the skin or clothing. Avoid getting it on your clothing. The stain on the skin will wear off after you stop using the medicine.

Is Coal Tar anti fungal?

Coal Tar is used in medicated shampoo, soap and ointment. It demonstrates antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and antiparasitic properties. It may be applied topically as a treatment for dandruff and psoriasis, and to kill and repel head lice.

Can Coal Tar be used for eczema?

Coal Tar is used to treat eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and other skin disorders.

*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
Share