Polytar Scalp Shampoo , Treats Psoriasis, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, Eczema, and Dandruff, Soothes Itchy, Scaly Scalps, Contains Coal Tar, 150ml ( Pack of 1)

Product Information

Tar preparations have been used extensively for over 50 years in the management of various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and other dermatoses. The precise mechanism of action is uncertain. Coal tars are known to suppress DNA synthesis in hyperplasic skin, inhibiting mitotic activity and protein synthesis. They decrease epidermal proliferation and dermal infiltration and thus promote a return to normal keratinisation. Coal tar has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antipruritic, keratolytic, keratoplastic and vasoconstrictive effects. The scalp and adjacent areas should be massaged with the fingertips. The hair should then be thoroughly rinsed and the procedure repeated. Taking both of these shampoo applications into consideration, the total leave on time for the shampoo should be 3-5 minutes.

In a study using a variety of coal tar preparations total urinary poly aromatic hydrocarbons were significantly elevated in patients treated dermally for different forms of dermatoses. The treatment period was for an average of 7 days using 1.5% - 40% coal tar preparations over a body surface area that ranged from 9 to 90%. Therefore some of the hydrocarbons present in coal tar may be absorbed through the skin. The highest levels absorbed depend largely on the body surface area treated and on the duration of exposure.Many of the hydrocarbons will be subject to extensive metabolic transformation by both oxidation and conjugation. Drug-metabolizing enzymes (both in the skin and systemically) may be induced by coal tar application. Topical coal tar overdose may increase the rate of skin irritation and photosensitivity. (s ee section 4.8). High dose administration of coal tar to laboratory animals is carcinogenic However, epidemiological evidence that includes prospective and retrospective studies in thousands of patients receiving coal tar therapy followed for more than 40 years do not suggest a potential increased risk of skin or systemic cancer. It is not known whether the topical application of coal tar preparations could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable amounts in breast milk.

Use of this medicine during pregnancy should only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the foetus. Polytar Scalp Shampoo should be used once or twice a week. Wet the hair and massage into the scalp and surrounding skin. Rinse thoroughly and repeat. Coal tar preparations have been used, for many years, when recommended by a doctor to treat children however, there is very little documented clinical data in this patient population.Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are listed below by MedDRA system organ class and by frequency. Frequencies are defined as: very common (≥1/10), common (≥1/100 and <1/10), uncommon (≥1/1,000 and <1/100), rare (≥1/10,000 and <1/1,000), very rare (<1/10,000), including isolated reports and Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data). This medicine contains 1g benzyl alcohol per 100g of shampoo. Benzyl alcohol may cause allergic reactions and mild local irritation. This medicine is for topical application to the scalp. The hair should be rinsed and a sufficient amount of shampoo applied to produce an abundant lather. Avoid using the product if you are sensitive to any of the ingredients. Tar products may cause skin irritation, rashes, and rarely, photosensitivity. If you experience irritation or any other unwanted effects ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.