Salicylic Acid/Sulfur
What is SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
(SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR) This medication is used to treat dandruff and other scalp conditions (such as itching, scaling, flaking). Salicylic acid and sulfur are known as keratolytic agents. This type of drug causes the skin to shed dead cells from its top layer by increasing the amount of moisture in the skin and dissolving the substance that makes the cells clump together. This effect makes it easier to shed the skin cells, softens the top layer of skin, and decreases scaling and dryness. Salicylic acid belongs to the same class of drugs as aspirin (salicylates).
How should I use SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Shake the container well before use. Wet hair and scalp with water. Apply shampoo to scalp. Rub into the scalp well, working the shampoo into a lather. Leave on the scalp for 5 minutes and then rinse off. Shampoo again as directed and rinse well. Use the shampoo daily or every other day or as directed by your doctor. Once your condition has improved, you may need to use this product only occasionally (1 to 2 times a week). This medication should be used on the skin/scalp only. Do not use on cut/scraped skin. Be careful to avoid your eyes. If contact occurs, flush the affected eye(s) with cool water for 15 minutes. Do not use large amounts of this medication, apply it more often, or use it for a longer time than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased. You should see some improvement after 2 or 3 treatments. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse or if you think you have a serious medical problem.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to salicylic acid or sulfur; or to aspirin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as fragrance), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this product, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of the following health problems: cuts/open wounds on the scalp. During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
What may interact with SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
What if I miss a dose of SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What side effects may I notice from receiving SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
Burning, redness, and peeling skin near the treated area may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: severe redness/blistering/peeling of the scalp. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Where should I keep SALICYLIC ACID/SULFUR?
Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.