Topical coal tar preparations (Formulary: Dermatology)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
NHS Highland

For coal tar shampoos refer to Shampoos and other preparations for scalp and hair conditions.

COAL TAR - (First line)

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

LotionOTC (Exorex®) 5%

Dosage:

Apply 2 to 3 times daily (avoid mucosa and broken skin).

COAL TAR WITH SALICYCLIC ACID AND PRECIPITATED SULFUR

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Scalp ointment (Cocois®) (coal tar solution 12%, salicylic acid 2%, precipitated sulfur 4%)

Dosage:

Apply to scalp lesions for 1 hour then shampoo off. Use daily for 3 to 7 days then once weekly as necessary.

COAL TAR IN YELLOW SOFT PARAFFIN

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Ointment 10% unlicensed

Dosage:

Apply twice daily.

Notes:

Available from special-order manufacturers unlicensed; for information contact Medicines Information.

COAL TAR POMADE

Therapy notes

Formulation and dosage details

Formulation:

Ointment 6% (coal tar solution 6%, salicylic acid 2% in emulsifying ointment) (specialist use only)

Notes:

Available from special-order manufacturers unlicensed; for information contact Medicines Information.

Editorial Information

Document Id: F131