Coal tar and menthol topical

Generic name: coal tar and menthol topical [ kole-tar-and-MEN-thol-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand name: Denorex Therapeutic
Dosage form: topical shampoo (9%-1.5%)
Drug class: Miscellaneous topical agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 18, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is coal tar and menthol topical?

Coal tar and menthol topical is used to treat and prevent scalp itching, dryness, redness, flaking, scaling, and irritation from dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Coal tar and menthol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Coal tar and menthol topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Coal tar and menthol topical may cause serious side effects. Stop using coal tar and menthol topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using coal tar and menthol topical.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, or you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed. Tell your healthcare provider if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use coal tar and menthol topical if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if coal tar and menthol topical is safe to use if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients; or

• if you are receiving ultraviolet radiation treatment or taking medicines to treat psoriasis.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not allow a young child to use coal tar and menthol topical without help from an adult.

How should I use coal tar and menthol topical?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Coal tar and menthol topical is usually applied twice a week.

To apply coal tar and menthol topical:

• Shake coal tar and menthol topical well just before each use.

• Use enough coal tar and menthol topical to create a lather.

• Apply to wet hair and gently massage into scalp to work up a lather. Rinse thoroughly and repeat.

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

Store at room temperature and away from heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while using coal tar and menthol topical?

Do not use coal tar and menthol topical together with other psoriasis medications unless your doctor tells you to.

Do not get coal tar and menthol topical in your eyes. If contact does occur, rinse with water.

Coal tar and menthol topical could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

What other drugs will affect coal tar and menthol topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2025 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.01.