Anthralin For Psoriasis: Complete Guide To Use & Safety

Anthralin, commonly known by the brand name Zithranol, is a topical medication used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis, including plaque and scalp varieties. It works by slowing excessive skin cell growth and reducing inflammation, helping to alleviate redness, scaling, and itching.

About Anthralin

Anthralin, also called dithranol, is a synthetic compound derived from tree bark extracts historically used in psoriasis management. Available as creams, ointments, or shampoos like Zithranol-RR, it targets stable plaque psoriasis on the body and scalp. In the U.S., it requires a prescription and is applied topically to affected areas only.

Psoriasis affects millions worldwide, causing rapid skin cell turnover that leads to thick, scaly patches. Anthralin normalizes this process without systemic absorption, making it suitable for localized treatment. Treatment courses typically last 8-12 weeks, with short-contact methods preferred to minimize irritation.

Before Using Anthralin

Consult a healthcare provider before starting anthralin, especially if you have acute inflammatory psoriasis, open wounds, or allergies to similar compounds. Inform your doctor about pregnancy, breastfeeding, or other medications, as interactions are minimal but monitoring is advised.

• Allergies: Rare contact allergies reported; discontinue if severe reactions occur.
• Skin condition: Avoid on acutely inflamed, weeping, or infected skin.
• Age considerations: Approved for adults; off-label for children with caution.

Perform a patch test on a small area first to check tolerance, gradually increasing contact time.

How to Use Anthralin

Apply anthralin precisely to psoriatic lesions, avoiding healthy skin, eyes, mucous membranes, and genitals. Use gloves to prevent staining hands. Short-contact therapy—leaving it on for 10-60 minutes before washing off—is standard to reduce side effects.

Application Steps for Cream/Ointment (Body Psoriasis)

1. Wash and dry the affected area thoroughly.
2. Apply a thin layer to plaques only; rub gently.
3. Leave on for prescribed time (start 10-20 minutes, increase as tolerated up to 1-2 hours).
4. Wash off with lukewarm water and mild soap; avoid hot water to prevent staining.
5. Wash hands immediately after application.

For Scalp Psoriasis (Zithranol Shampoo)

Apply shampoo 3-4 times weekly to wet scalp, lather, leave for 3-5 minutes, then rinse. For cream on scalp, part hair and apply sparingly.

Protect surrounding skin with petrolatum if irritation occurs. Do not cover unless directed.

Dosage

Dosage varies by age, severity, and site. Start with lower strengths (0.1-0.5%) and titrate up.

• Adults (Body): Apply once daily, 8-12 weeks; short contact up to 2 hours.
• Adults (Scalp Cream): Once daily, short contact.
• Adults (Scalp Shampoo): 3-4 times weekly, 3-5 min.
• Children/Adolescents (12+): Similar to adults; long-term up to 12+ weeks with monitoring.
• Off-label (Alopecia Areata): 20-60 min daily, strengths 0.1-2%.

Follow your doctor’s exact instructions; overuse increases irritation risk.

Getting the Most from Your Treatment

Combine anthralin with moisturizers, UV therapy, or other topicals for better results. Apply after bathing when skin is soft. Track progress weekly; expect improvement in 4-6 weeks.

• Use fragrance-free emollients post-wash to lock in moisture.
• Avoid irritants like alcohol-based products.
• Consistent short-contact builds tolerance over time.
• For stubborn plaques, alternate with corticosteroids under guidance.

Side Effects

Anthralin commonly causes temporary redness, itching, burning, and yellow-brown staining of skin/hair, which fades in days to weeks. Severe irritation is dose-related.

Report persistent symptoms to your doctor; reduce contact time if needed.

How to Cope with Side Effects of Anthralin

Staining

Anthralin stains fabrics, skin, and surfaces irreversibly. Wear old clothes, use petroleum jelly on nails/hairline, and clean tubs with cleanser post-use.

Irritation

Start low (5-10 min), increase gradually. Apply protectant to normal skin. Cool compresses soothe burning.

• Burning/Redness: Reduce time or strength; use 1% hydrocortisone if approved.
• Itch: Antihistamines or oatmeal baths.

Precautions

Avoid eyes, mouth, and folds. Not for facial use unless specified. Pregnant/breastfeeding patients: discuss risks. Store at room temperature, away from children.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can children use anthralin?

Yes, for ages 12+ on scalp; younger under specialist supervision with short-contact.

Does anthralin stain permanently?

Skin/hair staining is temporary (1-4 weeks); fabrics may be permanent—protect accordingly.

How long until anthralin works?

Visible improvement in 2-4 weeks; full course 8-12 weeks.

Is anthralin safe for scalp psoriasis?

Yes, Zithranol shampoo is FDA-approved for ages 12+.

What if I get it in my eyes?

Rinse immediately with water; seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Further Reading and Resources

Explore psoriasis management from trusted sources like the National Psoriasis Foundation or consult a dermatologist for personalized plans.

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Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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