Alphosyl HC

How does it work?

This preparation contains a combination of coal tar, hydrocortisone and allatoin. Coal tar is mildly antiseptic and relieves itching. It also acts as a keratolytic, which works to break down a protein which forms part of the skin structure called keratin. Skin thickening occurs due to the deposition of keratin. Coal tar helps to reduce the excessive hardening, thickening and scaling of the skin. Hydrocortisone belongs to a group of medicines known as corticosteroids that are used for reducing inflammation. Irritation of the skin or membranes causes the release of substances that dilate blood vessels causing the area to become red, swollen and painful. As the medicine is absorbed it inhibits the action of these substances and reduces reddness, irritation and inflammation. Allantoin is used to chemically remove skin cells. It also stimulates cell growth, and therefore hastens wound healing. This preparation is used to treat a skin condition known as psoriasis.

What is it used for?

Psoriasis

Warning!

Avoid prolonged use.

This preparation is for external use only.

This medicine should be applied thinly and evenly to the affected area(s).

Avoid contact of this medicine with the eyes.

Long-term use of this medicine on large areas of skin or underneath airtight dressings may increase the amount of medicine that is absorbed into the bloodstream. This may increase the risk of adverse effects.

If redness or irritation occurs, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Wound healing may be significantly reduced.

Use with caution in

No known conditions

Not to be used in

Chickenpox/shingles

Children under 5 years of age

Fungal skin infections, eg athlete's foot, ringworm, candida skin infections

Herpes simplex viral infections

Skin sores caused by tuberculosis

Smallpox (vaccinia)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during pregnancy, therefore it is not recommended for use during pregnancy, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available regarding the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication is to be spread thinly and sparingly on the skin.

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