Anthralin, also known as dithranol, is a topical medication primarily used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis. It's derived from the dried bark of the araroba tree, native to Brazil. Anthralin works by slowing down the excessive growth of skin cells, reducing inflammation, and promoting the shedding of dead skin cells. It's available in various formulations such as creams, ointments, and pastes. While effective, it can cause skin irritation and staining of the skin and clothing, so it's important to follow usage instructions carefully.

Anthralin inhibits DNA replication in the affected area after topical application. It is used to treat patients with stable plaque psoriasis

Anthralin Dose in Adult

Anthralin For the treatment of Psoriasis:  

Cream:

• Use it once a day or as your doctor says. Start with a short time (5 to 10 minutes) for the first week with the lowest strength. Then you can increase the time up to 30 minutes as your skin gets used to it.

Skin application:

• Put a small amount only on the psoriasis spots and gently rub it in until it's absorbed. Don't use too much to avoid staining clothes or bedsheets.

Scalp application:

• First, clean your hair and wet it. Then apply the cream on the affected areas on your scalp, making sure it doesn't spread to your forehead.

Shampoo:

• Use the shampoo on your wet scalp, lather it up, and leave it for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. Do these 3 to 4 times a week.

Anthralin Dose in Children

Anthralin Dose in the treatment of Scalp psoriasis:

For treating scalp psoriasis in kids aged 12 years and older:

• Shampoo: Massage the shampoo onto the wet scalp, create lather, and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. Then rinse it off completely. Do this routine 3 to 4 times a week.

Pregnancy Risk Factor C

• There's a pregnancy risk factor C for Anthralin, which means there haven't been studies on animals to see if it's safe during pregnancy.

Anthralin use during breastfeeding:

• It's uncertain if Anthralin passes into breast milk, so it's unclear if it can affect nursing infants.
• If you're breastfeeding and considering using Anthralin, you should weigh the importance of treatment for you against any potential risks to your baby.
• You might need to decide whether to stop breastfeeding or stop using the medication.

Anthralin Dose in Renal Disease:

• The manufacturer's instructions don't include any specific dosage adjustments for people with kidney problems.

Anthralin Dose in Liver Disease:

• The manufacturer's labeling does not mention any dosage adjustments for individuals with liver impairment.

Side Effects of Anthralin Frequency not defined.

• Dermatologic:
  • Allergic contact sensitivity
  • Erythema
  • Temporary discoloration of hair, nails, and skin
• Miscellaneous:
  • Transient irritation of the uninvolved skin

Contraindication to Anthralin Include:

• If someone is allergic to anthralin or any part of the formulation, or if they have acute psoriasis (meaning their psoriasis is currently inflamed), they should not use anthralin.

Warnings and Precautions

Redness:

• If you notice redness after applying anthralin, you should either use it less often or stop using it altogether.

Staining

• Anthralin might cause staining on the skin, hair, and fingernails, though this is usually temporary.
• It can also stain fabrics, which may be permanent.

Monitoring Parameters:

None required.

How to administer Anthralin:

• To prevent staining your fingers, you can use latex gloves when applying Anthralin.
• Apply it directly to the affected areas, rubbing it in gently but thoroughly, and avoid putting it on unaffected skin.
• If applying to the scalp, part your hair into one-inch sections to ensure you reach all the plaques.
• Wash it off after the recommended time, being careful to avoid getting it in your eyes.
• Clean the tub or shower immediately afterward to prevent staining.
• When drying off, use an old towel as fabric stains might be permanent.
• You can also use petroleum jelly around the edges of plaques, in body folds, or skin creases to protect unaffected skin from irritation.

Mechanism of action of Anthralin:

• Anthralin works on psoriasis by slowing down the growth of skin cells.
• It does this by blocking the production of nucleic proteins, which are needed for DNA synthesis, specifically targeting the affected areas.
• This reduction in the rate of cell division helps to alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.

International Brands of Anthralin:

• Ansrin
• Anthra West
• Anthramash
• Anthramed
• Anthranol
• Anthrin
• Antranol
• Dithrasis
• Dithrocream
• Filorose
• Micanol
• Psoradexan
• Psoriderm
• Psorinol
• Timicolid

Anthralin brands in Pakistan:

No brands available in Pakistan.