What is Zithranol: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 31, 2020

Zithranol overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Drithocreme, Zithranol, Zithranol-RR

Generic Names:

  • Zithranol

Uses:

  • Treats psoriasis.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antipsoriatic

Forms:

  • Cream, Shampoo

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Zithranol used for?

What form(s) does Zithranol come in

  • Cream

  • Shampoo

What are common Zithranol doses?

  • Tube 85GM of 1%

Common Zithranol prescriptions

  • Zithranol
    85gm of 1% tube

How to take Zithranol

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • While applying this medicine to your scalp, shampoo and rinse your hair with water before and after each treatment period. Apply this medicine to the affected area while the hair is still damp.

  • This medicine will stain fabrics, plastics, or bathroom surfaces. Use a protective bandage or covering over the treated area to avoid staining of your clothes or bed linens.

  • After bathing or showering, rinse and clean your bathtub or shower to prevent staining of the tile, plastic, or porcelain.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • While applying this medicine to your scalp, shampoo and rinse your hair with water before and after each treatment period. Apply this medicine to the affected area while the hair is still damp.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • This medicine will stain fabrics, plastics, or bathroom surfaces. Use a protective bandage or covering over the treated area to avoid staining of your clothes or bed linens.

  • After bathing or showering, rinse and clean your bathtub or shower to prevent staining of the tile, plastic, or porcelain.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

What to do if you miss a dose of Zithranol

  • Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Zithranol contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to anthralin, or if you have severe pain, swelling, or redness from your psoriasis.

Zithranol warnings

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Zithranol interactions

  • Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

Zithranol side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Severe soreness where the medicine is applied.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild skin rash, redness, or itching where the medicine is applied.

  • Discoloration of your hair, skin, or nails.

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