What is coal tar?
Coal tar is a by-product of coal processing.
Coal tar topical (for the skin) is used to treat the skin symptoms of psoriasis, including dryness, redness, flaking, scaling, and itching. Coal tar is not a cure for psoriasis, and it will provide only temporary relief of skin symptoms.
Coal tar may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about coal tar?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to coal tar.
Before using coal tar, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you are receiving ultraviolet radiation treatment for your psoriasis.
Do not use coal tar to treat the skin of your groin or rectal area.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Coal tar can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result.
Stop using coal tar and call your doctor at once if you have severe stinging, burning, swelling, or other irritation of the treated skin.
Do not use coal tar to treat large skin areas. Do not use coal tar over long periods of time without your doctor's advice.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse after using coal tar.
Coal tar is not a cure for psoriasis, and it will provide only temporary relief of skin symptoms.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before using coal tar?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to coal tar.
Before using coal tar, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you are receiving ultraviolet radiation treatment for your psoriasis.
This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether coal tar passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Coal tar products may contain lanolin, mineral oil, or other emulsifiers. Check the label of any coal tar product you are using. Talk with your doctor before using coal tar if you are allergic to any of the ingredients.