Pyrithione Zinc

Brand names: Beta Med®DermaZinc®DHS® ZincHead and Shoulders®Head and Shoulders® Dry ScalpSebulon®Theraplex® ZZNP® Soap

Chemical formula:

Drug Forms:
• Pyrithione Zinc shampoo (below)
• Pyrithione Zinc skin cream or lotion
• Pyrithione Zinc bar soap or shampoo

Pyrithione Zinc shampoo

What is Pyrithione Zinc shampoo?

PYRITHIONE ZINC shampoo (Dermazinc®, DHS Zinc, Head and Shoulders®) is used to treat dandruff and seborrhea of the scalp and skin. It is available without a prescription. Generic pyrithione zinc shampoo is available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an unusual reaction to Pyrithione Zinc, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

Pyrithione Zinc is only for use on the skin or scalp. Do not take by mouth. Shake well before using. Follow the directions on the bottle. Wet your hair completely with warm water. Apply shampoo to your hair and massage it into your hair and scalp, working up a lather. Leave the lather on your scalp for several minutes. Then thoroughly rinse your scalp and hair. Rinse your hands well after use. Do not use more often or for a longer period of time than directed by your prescriber or health care professional. Using for longer than directed could increase the chance of side effects.

Do not get pyrithione zinc in the eyes. If you do, rinse the eyes out with plenty of cool tap water.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

Pyrithione zinc shampoo should be used at least twice a week or as directed by your health care professional. If you miss a dose, use it at the next available opportunity as soon as you remember.

What drug(s) may interact with Pyrithione Zinc?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Pyrithione Zinc?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after two weeks. Avoid getting pyrithione zinc in your eyes.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Pyrithione Zinc?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• lack of healing of the skin condition
• severe redness or irritation of the skin after using pyrithione zinc

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• minor skin irritation

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature, 15—30 degrees C (59—86 degrees F). Keep tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.