Polytar
Generic Name
Coal Tar, Salicylic Acid
Manufacturer
Stiefel (a GSK company)
Country
United Kingdom / USA (Varies by market)
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| polytar shampoo | ৳ 1,050.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Polytar Shampoo is a medicated treatment for scalp conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and seborrhoeic dermatitis (dandruff). It contains coal tar which helps reduce scaling, itching, and inflammation, and salicylic acid to help shed dead skin cells and soften scales.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Wet hair thoroughly. Apply a small amount to the scalp and massage into a rich lather. Leave on for 3-5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat if desired. Use 2-3 times a week or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Elderly
Same as adults. No specific dosage adjustment is typically required.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
How to Take
For external use only. Apply to wet hair, lather, leave for specified time, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands after use.
Mechanism of Action
Coal tar is a keratoplastic and mild antiseptic, which reduces excessive skin cell proliferation and inflammation. Salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic, promoting the shedding of dead skin cells and softening thick scales, making them easier to remove.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Symptom improvement typically observed within a few days to weeks of regular use.
Excretion
Primarily removed by rinsing off. Any minimal absorbed components are metabolized and excreted via normal physiological pathways.
Half life
Not clinically relevant for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption through intact skin. Primarily acts locally on the scalp.
Metabolism
Local metabolism within the skin. Systemic metabolism is negligible.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to coal tar, salicylic acid, or any other ingredients.
- Acute inflamed or broken skin on the scalp.
- Children under 12 years of age (unless advised by a doctor).
Drug Interactions
Other Topical Scalp Treatments
Avoid concomitant use with other topical scalp treatments containing similar active ingredients without medical advice to prevent excessive irritation or absorption.
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place. Protect from direct sunlight and heat. Keep bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Accidental ingestion is unlikely but may cause gastrointestinal upset. Topical overdose, such as excessive or prolonged use, may lead to increased skin irritation, folliculitis, or photosensitivity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and only if clearly needed after consulting a healthcare professional. Although systemic absorption is minimal, professional advice is recommended.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to coal tar, salicylic acid, or any other ingredients.
- Acute inflamed or broken skin on the scalp.
- Children under 12 years of age (unless advised by a doctor).
Drug Interactions
Other Topical Scalp Treatments
Avoid concomitant use with other topical scalp treatments containing similar active ingredients without medical advice to prevent excessive irritation or absorption.
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place. Protect from direct sunlight and heat. Keep bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze.
Overdose
Accidental ingestion is unlikely but may cause gastrointestinal upset. Topical overdose, such as excessive or prolonged use, may lead to increased skin irritation, folliculitis, or photosensitivity.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and only if clearly needed after consulting a healthcare professional. Although systemic absorption is minimal, professional advice is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date. Refer to the product packaging for specific expiry details.
Availability
Pharmacies, Supermarkets, Online Stores
Approval Status
Approved (OTC)
Patent Status
Expired
Clinical Trials
Efficacy and safety of coal tar for dermatological conditions are well-established through historical use and various clinical studies, though specific trials for Polytar brand might not be widely published or are older.
Lab Monitoring
- No routine lab monitoring is typically required for Polytar Shampoo.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize proper application technique and frequency to optimize therapeutic benefits and minimize side effects.
- Advise patients on potential temporary discoloration of light hair/skin and the importance of sun protection due to photosensitivity.
- Consider alternative treatments if irritation persists or conditions worsen.
Patient Guidelines
- For external use only. Do not swallow.
- Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
- Do not use on broken, infected, or acutely inflamed skin.
- Wash hands thoroughly after using the shampoo.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed dose.
Driving Precautions
Polytar Shampoo is for topical use and is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid scratching the scalp to prevent further irritation or infection.
- Use a gentle conditioner after shampooing if hair feels dry.
- Protect your scalp from strong sunlight after using Polytar Shampoo, as coal tar can increase photosensitivity.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.