Dithranol Pharmacology

Dithranol

About Dithranol
Anthracene derivative, Antipsoriatic, Keratolytic Agent.
Mechanism of Action of Dithranol
Dithranol inhibits the cell growth and restore cell differentiation. Dithranol in presence of light undergoes auto oxidation and produce inactive products, free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Free radical destroys DNA of cells and inactivates enzymes associated with cell proliferation and inflammation
The central pathogenetic figure in psoriasis is T-lymphocyte which in turn stimulates keratinocytes proliferation and they themselves multiply releasing IL, TNF alpha and IFN gamma. There is up regulation of ICAM and VCAM and migration of leucocytes, monocytes and Neutrophil to endothelial cells. Proliferating keratinocytes also release IL, TNF, GF and TGF resulting in inflammation. Dithranol acts on all these steps resulting in inhibition of proliferation of epidermal cells in psoriasis
Pharmacokinets of Dithranol
N/A
Onset of Action for Dithranol
N/A
Duration of Action for Dithranol
N/A
Half Life of Dithranol
N/A
Side Effects of Dithranol
1.Irritation
2.Folliculitis
3.Stainig
4.Redness
Contra-indications of Dithranol
1.Hypersensitivity to Dithranol
2.Acute onset psoriasis
3.Guttate psoriasis
4.Pustular psoriasis
5.Erythrodermic psoriasis
Special Precautions while taking Dithranol
1 Prolonged use
2 Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
3.Avoid the use of medicament to blistered, raw, or oozing areas of the skin or scalp
4.Do not use the medicine on face or sex organs or in the folds and creases of skin
5.Wear plastic gloves while applying medicines.
Pregnancy Related Information
Use with caution
Old Age Related Information
Use with caution
Breast Feeding Related Information
Use with caution
Children Related Information
Use with caution
NEONATES: contraindicated
Indications for Dithranol
1.Psoriasis- plaque psoriasis
2.Eczema
3.Vitiligo
Interactions for Dithranol
N/A
Typical Dosage for Dithranol
Ointment 0.4% w/w, 1% w/w and 2%w/w, Cream: 0.5% w/w and 1% w/w Dithranol are available.
Apply the medicament to the affected area 1 - 2 times daily before bath and delicate area should be treated cautiously. Wash hands after use. After 10 - 30 minutes drug is removed by a cotton wool which is previously soaked in oil or a mild detergent and then bath
Dithranol can also be applied to the scalp. Comb and wash the hair first and after parting, rub the Dithranol into the affected area. Shampoo it off after about 30 minutes. Dithranol is not suitable for blond hair as it stains brown or purple
Schedule of Dithranol
N/A
Storage Requirements for Dithranol
Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep out of the reach of children.
Effects of Missed Dosage of Dithranol
Apply the missed dose as soon as noticed and if it is the time for next dose then skip the missed dose. Continue the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Effects of Overdose of Dithranol
Give supportive measures and symptomatic treatment.

Home Delivery for Dithranol in Your City

Medicine India is just a publishing medium for medicine related information and does not provide services or sales of medicines including dithranol.

However, we do publish a comprehensive directory of Pharmacies, Chemists and Druggists in cities all over India. You can use this directory to find the medicine stores in your city (or area) that provide home delivery services for dithranol and other medicines and health products. Home delivery services for dithranol may be free or they may cost you depending on the pharmacy and the minimum order requirements. It would be best to get this clarified while placing the order.

Please be aware that you should take dithranol only if a doctor has recommended or prescribed it. Some or all pharmacies who provide a home delivery service for medicines might insist on a prescription for dithranol before they complete the sale. You can get this information while placing the order for dithranol with the pharmacy.

Dithranol is a generic medicine name and there are several brands available for it. Some of the brands for dithranol might be better known than dithranol itself. If the pharmacy that's willing to deliver medicines to your home doesn't have dithranol in stock, you can ask for one of the branded alternatives for dithranol.