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DERMATOLOGICALS › ANTIFUNGALS FOR DERMATOLOGICAL USE › ANTIFUNGALS FOR TOPICAL USE › Other antifungals for topical use
selenium sulfide
D01AE13
Forms & Strengths
- Topical Suspension: 1%
- Topical Suspension: 2.5%
Adult Dosing
- Dandruff / Seborrheic dermatitis: Apply 1-2 tsp of 1% or 2.5% suspension to wet scalp, massage into lather, leave on for 2-3 minutes, rinse thoroughly. Repeat twice weekly for 2 weeks, then as needed for control.
- Tinea versicolor: Apply 2.5% suspension to affected areas, lather with a small amount of water, leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat daily for 7 days.
Pediatric Dosing
- Children < 12 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established; use with caution and only as directed by a physician.
- Adolescents >= 12 years: Same as adult dosing for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Indications
- Treatment of dandruff
- Control of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp
- Treatment of tinea versicolor
Mechanism of Action
- Exerts cytostatic effect on epidermal cells, reducing cell turnover and corneocyte production in dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
- Demonstrates anti-infective activity against Malassezia furfur (Pityrosporum ovale), inhibiting fungal growth in tinea versicolor.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to selenium sulfide or any component of the formulation
- Application to inflamed, broken, or acutely infected skin
Adverse Reactions
- Skin irritation, dryness, or burning sensation
- Oiliness or dryness of hair and scalp
- Temporary hair discoloration (prevented by thorough rinsing)
- Systemic toxicity if applied to large broken skin areas (rare)
Drug Interactions
- May discolor metal jewelry; remove rings and metal accessories prior to use.
- No major systemic pharmacokinetic drug interactions expected due to minimal percutaneous absorption under normal intact skin conditions.
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use