Anthralin

Anthralin is a topical medication primarily used for treating psoriasis. Its efficacy has also been explored for other skin conditions, including alopecia areata. Anthralin works by slowing down the growth of skin cells and reducing inflammation in the affected area.

It is effective in treating plaque psoriasis, especially thick, scaly lesions, and has shown promise in stimulating hair regrowth in alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss. It’s thought that anthralin helps with alopecia areata symptoms by redirecting the body’s immune response away from the hair follicles.

While corticosteroids are often first-line treatments for alopecia areata, anthralin is typically reserved for resistant cases. To get the best results, anthralin use requires careful application and monitoring to minimize side effects like irritation and skin staining.

Zithranol (anthralin) shampoo is indicated:

• For the treatment of scalp psoriasis in subjects 12 years of age and older

Antipsoriatic

• Very few instances of contact allergic reactions to anthralin have been reported

• Transient primary irritation and staining of hair or skin may occur

• The temporary discoloration of hair and skin may be minimized by careful application

The cost of anthralin may vary depending on factors such as your insurance plan, the dosage, the quantity, the brand, and where you buy it. Anthralin is the active ingredient in several brand-name drugs, including Drithocreme^® and Zithranol^®, and it is available as a cream or shampoo.

Without insurance, the average retail price of Drithocreme is about $444 per tube. The average cost of Zithranol shampoo is about $1,190 per bottle. Coupons or discount cards may be available to help bring down the price, and insurance may cover all or some of the cost of these medications.

• Use of Zithranol shampoo is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to anthralin or to any ingredient in this preparation

• For external use only

• Contact with fabrics, plastics and other materials may cause staining and should be avoided

• Always wash hands thoroughly after use

  Avoid contact with the eyes or mucous membranes

• Discontinue use if a sensitivity reaction occurs or if excessive irritation develops

• Pregnancy: Zithranol shampoo should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed

• Breastfeeding: Caution should be exercised when Zithranol shampoo is administered to a nursing woman

*This information is from the label for Zithranol^®. See the Full Prescribing Information for more complete information. Anthralin, the active ingredient in Zithranol, may also be the active ingredient in other medications, and this information may not be accurate for all medications that include the active ingredient anthralin.