Does Anthralin Treat Chronic Psoriasis?
Yes, anthralin treats chronic plaque psoriasis, a common form of chronic psoriasis. It reduces inflammation, slows skin cell overgrowth, and clears plaques through topical application, often as a short-contact therapy (10-30 minutes daily before washing off).[1][2]
How Does Anthralin Work for Psoriasis?
Anthralin inhibits DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing skin cells and suppresses immune responses in the epidermis. It normalizes keratinocyte differentiation without systemic absorption, making it suitable for localized chronic plaques unresponsive to milder topicals.[1][3]
What Forms and Dosages Are Used?
Available as 0.1-2% creams, ointments, or pastes (e.g., Dritho-Scalp). Start with low concentrations on small areas, increasing based on tolerance. Treatment lasts weeks to months until clearance, then maintenance.[2][4]
How Effective Is It Compared to Other Treatments?
Anthralin clears 60-80% of mild-to-moderate plaques in 4-8 weeks, similar to topical corticosteroids or calcipotriene but with a different mechanism. It pairs well with UV therapy (Goeckerman regimen) for better results in stubborn chronic cases. Less effective for guttate or pustular psoriasis.[1][3][5]
What Side Effects Do Patients Report?
Common issues include burning, stinging, and temporary skin discoloration (purplish-brown staining, reversible). Irritation affects 20-50% of users; avoid eyes, genitals, and folds. No long-term atrophy risk unlike steroids.[2][4]
Who Should Avoid Anthralin?
Not for acute, erythrodermic, or facial psoriasis; contraindicated in bacterial/viral skin infections or hypersensitivity. Use caution in pregnancy (Category C).[1][2]
When Did Anthralin Get Approved and What's Its Patent Status?
Marketed since the 1930s from coal tar derivatives; generic worldwide. No active U.S. patents listed on DrugPatentWatch.com—check DrugPatentWatch.com for formulations.[6]
[1] American Academy of Dermatology. Psoriasis clinical guideline. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019.
[2] National Psoriasis Foundation. Anthralin treatment overview. psoriasis.org.
[3] Lebwohl M, et al. N Engl J Med. 2003;349:658-64.
[4] FDA label: Anthralin cream. drugs@FDA.
[5] Koo J. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998;38:591-6.
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com. Anthralin patents.