Anthralin
Anthralin (dithranol) is a topical antipsoriatic medication primarily used to treat chronic plaque psoriasis. It works by slowing down the excessive growth of skin cells and reducing inflammation, helping to normalize skin turnover. This medication is typically applied directly to affected skin areas and is often used as a second-line treatment when other therapies have not been effective.
Anthralin is a topical psoriasis treatment that slows skin cell growth and reduces inflammation.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D05AC01
- RxNorm
- 873
- Generic
- Anthralin
- Class
- atc-d05
- Brands
- Zithranol, Micanol, Drithocreme
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- ointment, cream, gel
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
topical anthralin should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed; minimize application area and duration
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh risks; limit to smallest effective area
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid if possible
use minimal amounts and avoid large body surface area application
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid on breast area
avoid applying anthralin to breast area before nursing; wash thoroughly before breastfeeding if used on other areas
monitor infant for skin reactions
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12reduce concentration and duration
use lower concentrations (0.1-0.5%); shorter application times (15-30 minutes); supervise closely
monitor skin irritation and response
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly over 65start with lower concentrations
use lower concentrations initially; monitor for skin thinning and irritation; may have increased percutaneous absorption due to age-related skin changes
regular skin assessment for irritation or atrophy
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment typically needed
topical use with minimal systemic absorption; standard dosing acceptable
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment typically needed
topical use with minimal systemic absorption; standard dosing acceptable
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for Anthralin topical treatment
Drug class
Drug class classification for Anthralin
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indication for Anthralin
Mechanism of action
Pharmacological mechanism of Anthralin
Anthralin is primarily used to treat chronic plaque psoriasis, including scalp psoriasis. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by a healthcare provider.
Anthralin works by reducing excessive skin cell proliferation (hyperproliferation) and has anti-inflammatory properties. It normalizes keratinocyte differentiation and suppresses the inflammatory responses that contribute to psoriatic lesions.
Anthralin should only be applied to affected skin areas, avoiding contact with healthy skin, face, and mucous membranes. It may cause skin irritation, staining of skin and fabrics, and should be used with caution in patients with sensitive skin. Pregnant or nursing women should consult their healthcare provider before use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy