Brand Name: Balnetar
Generic Name: Coal Tar
| Indications and Clinical Use |
|
Indicated for relieving symptoms of psoriasis: itching, redness, and scaling. It is particularly useful in chronic plaque psoriasis. Coal tar is used topically sometimes in combination with other drugs such as salicylic acid and sulfur. Long remission times may be obtained from coal tar use.
Coal tar has also been used topically for the following dermatologic conditions: atopic dermatitis, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, chronic exudative or lichenoid dermatitis.
Contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to coal tar preparations, or to any ingredient used in specific formulations. Coal tar is also contraindicated in patients with acutely inflamed or broken skin, pustular psoriasis and in the presence of any skin infections.
General
Coal tar should not be used near the eyes. If contact occurs, the affected eye should be thoroughly rinsed with water.
Coal tar is messy and odorous and can stain clothing. Preparations can discolour blond or grey hair to a yellowish tint. Although modified formulations of coal tar exist to address the aesthetic concerns of patients, these products do not show improved clinical efficacy compared to traditional formulations.
To avoid falls patients should be warned that coal tar preparations can make the bathtub slippery.
Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis
Although currently available information does not show an increased risk of skin cancer in psoriatic patients treated with coal tar, further studies are needed to determine the risk. A review of the literature found only a small number of reported cases of skin cancer attributable to coal tar between 1900-1966. Most of these cases occurred in the anogenital region. Coal tar should not be applied around the genital, groin, or rectal area.
Sensitivity/Resistance
Hypersensitive patients may experience a pustular eruption or keratocystic response.
Skin
Skin irritation may develop or increase during therapy and such concerns should be directed to a physician.
Treated areas should not be exposed to sunlight or sunlamps for at least 24 hours after application because of photosensitivity reactions. UVA light in particular should be avoided. However, certain therapeutic regimens combine coal tar treatment with ultraviolet exposure (e.g., Goeckerman therapy).
Coal tar preparations should not be used in patients with acute psoriasis because of a risk of total body exfoliation.
|
