Coal Tar and Coal Tar Combinations Topical

What are coal tar and coal tar combinations topical?

Coal tar and coal tar combinations topical (Imrex® shampoo, Sulfodene® shampoo, Nova Pearls® shampoo, Pharmasal-T®s shampoo) are used to treat various skin conditions in dogs. They have traditionally been used to treat oily skin conditions such as seborrhea oleosa.

Coal tar and coal tar combination products also treat flea bite dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. They decrease inflammation, reduce itchiness and control the levels of grease on the skin. Coal tar and coal tar combination products should NOT be used on cats.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately. The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.”

Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.

Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.

Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.

How do I give my pet coal tar and coal tar combinations topical?

• Coal tar and coal tar combinations topical come in several formats to be used topically on the skin. These include shampoos, creams, lotions, and ointments.
• Refer to specific product labels for directions, as contact time recommendations may vary.
• Completely rinse shampoos to prevent skin irritation and/or excessive drying.
• For dogs with thin coats, avoid exposure to sun for 24 hours after treatment.
• Use all products, including shampoos, creams, lotions, and ointments, according to your veterinarian’s directions.
• Humans exposed to coal tar and coal tar combinations may have carcinogenic risks. Wear gloves when applying this product and wash off any product that contacts your skin.
• Coal tar products may stain fabrics and discolor jewelry.

This medication may require several applications to have full effects. Visible improvements may be gradual but should be noticeable within 7 to 14 days.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a treatment, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled treatment, skip the missed treatment and resume the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two treatments at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Coal tar and coal tar combinations topical may cause the following side effects:

• Photosensitization (skin becomes over-sensitive to light, especially UV light)
• Skin dryness
• Skin irritation
• Discoloration of light-colored coats
• Residual odor
• Staining of haircoat

Adverse effects are more likely with coal tar concentrations greater than 3%. If excessive skin irritation occurs or the existing skin irritation and/or swelling worsens, stop using the product and contact your veterinarian immediately.

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. Coal tar and coal tar combinations topical should stop working within 48–72 hours, although effects can vary according to the product format used.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE coal tar and coal tar combinations topical in:

• Cats
• Dogs that are nursing
• Puppies under 8 weeks old.
• Pets who have prior sensitivity reactions or allergies to tar products
• Pets with dry scaling dermatoses

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding when your pet will need to be rechecked and what tests may need to be performed before and during treatment with the drug.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store coal tar and coal tar combinations topical?

• Store this product at a controlled room temperature of 59°F-77°F (15°C-25°C).
• Store in a cool, dry place.
• Keep this product out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.