Derobin Ointment

Derobin Ointment is a topical medication primarily used in the treatment of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by the rapid build-up of skin cells leading to thick, red, scaly patches. The formulation combines three active ingredients: dithranol (anthralin), salicylic acid, and coal tar. Dithranol is an anti-psoriatic agent that slows down the excessive multiplication of skin cells by interfering with the mitochondrial function of keratinocytes.

Salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic agent, helping to shed dead skin cells and soften thickened patches, thereby allowing for better penetration of the active ingredients. Coal tar reduces itching and inflammation while promoting desquamation of the outer layer of the skin. This ointment is intended for external use only and should be applied only to the affected areas as directed by a physician.

Its use is contraindicated in several conditions, including broken or inflamed skin, pustular psoriasis, facial psoriasis, and in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any of its components. It is also not recommended for use on sensitive areas, such as the face, groin, or underarms, due to the risk of skin irritation, burning, and permanent discolouration. Caution must be exercised to avoid contact with the eyes, mucous membranes, and surrounding healthy skin.

Proper hand hygiene, both before and after application, is essential to prevent unintentional transfer to sensitive areas. The most common side effects of Derobin ointment include skin irritation, redness, burning sensation, dryness, and temporary staining of skin, nails, and clothing. Serious side effects may occur if the medication is over-applied or used over large surface areas for extended durations, potentially leading to systemic absorption and toxicity.

Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, tinnitus, hearing loss, and other systemic effects. Frequent follow-ups with the healthcare provider are necessary to assess treatment progress, adjust dosage, and minimise potential complications. In special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, the use of Derobin should be approached with caution.

Limited data are available on its safety in pregnancy and lactation; thus, it should only be used if clearly prescribed by a doctor. Its use in children is not recommended. Patients should avoid sun exposure, smoking near treated areas, and contact with flammable materials, as the ointment may increase the risk of severe burns.

It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Any unused or expired product should be disposed of responsibly.

Dosage

Overdose

• Since Derobin ointment is meant to be applied externally on the skin, cases of overdose are unlikely.
• In some cases, an overdose of this ointment for long periods or on large areas of skin can lead to over-absorption of this ointment into the body causing symptoms like vomiting, dehydration, diarrhoea, ringing sensation in ears, deafness, sweating, warm hand and feet, pounding heart rates, increased breathing and other serious side effects.
• If you experience any of the symptoms or you accidentally ingest it, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

If you have missed applying the Derobin ointment, apply it as soon as possible. Do not overapply this medicine just to compensate for the missed dose.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Diathrol inhibits cell multiplication by obstructing the cell reproduction cycle. Coal tar helps reduce itching and promotes the softening of the outer layer of the skin. Salicylic acid removes dead skin cells and makes the skin soft in the areas affected. Thus, Derobin ointment helps improve the symptoms of psoriasis.

Directions for Use

• Derobin ointment is meant for external use only. Use it in exact quantity and frequency as prescribed by your doctor.
• Apply it to a healthy skin surface free from cuts and wounds and gently rub the ointment on the affected area only. If you are applying it to the scalp, first remove scales and debris with a comb and rub it on the affected area.
• Wash the ointment off as prescribed by your doctor.
• Wash your hands before and after using this medicine unless your hands are the area to be treated.
• Avoid contact with the face or eyes. In case your eyes come in contact with this medicine, rinse your eyes with clean water immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I apply Derobin Ointment during pregnancy?

There is limited information about the use of Derobin ointment during human pregnancy. You should consult your doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a child before starting this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Can I apply Derobin Ointment while breastfeeding?

Derobin ointment should not be applied to the breast of breastfeeding mothers or elsewhere on large areas of skin or for a prolonged period. You should consult your doctor before using this medicine during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have applied Derobin Ointment?

There is limited information about the effects of Derobin ointment on driving but as it is a topical preparation, it may not affect the driving ability or ability to handle machinery. If you do not feel well or are unable to be alert, you should avoid driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol if I have applied Derobin Ointment?

There is limited information about the effects of Derobin ointment with alcohol but you should avoid taking alcohol in excessive amounts.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

• You experience a severe burning sensation or skin irritation.

Contraindications

• If you are allergic to this medicine or any other ingredients of Derobin ointment.
• If you have psoriasis that is sore, tender, and inflamed and has small blisters filled with pus (pustular psoriasis).
• If you have psoriasis on your face.
• If you suffer from any inflammation of the hair follicles.
• If you have acne.
• If you have sensitivity or allergy to sunlight.
• If you have inflamed or broken skin like oozing wounds and infected skin.
• If you have a condition called lupus erythematosus.
• Do not use this ointment on your private parts.

Side effects

• Skin irritation
• Skin rash
• Dry skin
• Skin redness
• Burning sensation at the area applied
• Staining of skin and hair

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

• Since Derobin ointment is to be used externally on the skin. It is less likely to interact with other medicines. However, you should always consult your doctor if you are taking other medicines for treating other health conditions.
• Derobin ointment may increase the absorption and chances of side effects of other medicines. So, avoid applying other topical medicines (cream, lotion, etc.) with this ointment on the same area of the skin concomitantly.

Storage and disposal

• Store Derobin ointment in a cool and dry place protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
• Do not freeze it. Keep it out of reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use the ointment once the expiry date has passed.
• Discard any unused medicine properly, do not flush in the toilet or throw it into the drain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Derobin ointment used for?

Derobin ointment is used to treat a skin condition called psoriasis, a condition where there are elevated red patches with scales.

What are the side effects of using Derobin ointment?

You may experience a burning sensation, redness, staining at the area where the ointment is applied. However, not everyone gets these side effects.

Can I use Derobin ointment for pimples?

No, you should not use Derobin ointment for pimples. This ointment should not be applied to the face as there are chances of skin staining, irritation and burning.

Can I apply Derobin ointment on open wounds?

You should never self-medicate. Always consult a doctor, after careful clinical examination, he may advise to use it. Moreover, Derobin ointment should not be applied to broken and oozing skin lesions as it can be absorbed in the body and may produce serious side effects.

For how long should I use Derobin ointment?

You should take Derobin ointment for as long as your doctor has prescribed. After careful examination and severity of psoriasis, the treatment duration may vary. Your doctor may even advise frequent follow-up visits to see the response of different dose strengths of this ointment.

When to stop using Derobin ointment?

You should never stop using Derobin ointment without consulting the doctor. If you experience severe skin irritation, burning and allergic reactions, visit the doctor or a nearby hospital immediately.

What should I do if my eyes come in contact with Derobin ointment?

If you get any ointment in your eyes, rinse with water straight away. Keep your eyes open when you rinse. If you still feel any discomfort, contact your doctor right away.

Can I use Derobin for fungal infection?

No, it is not meant for skin fungal infection.

What is the composition of Derobin?

The composition of Derobin includes- dithranol, salicylic acid and coal tar.

Is Derobin harmful to the skin?

No, it is not harmful to the skin as long you use it exactly as the doctor advised you in the prescribed amount and frequency. Do not use this cream for any other skin condition other than what it is prescribed for.

Is Derobin antifungal?

No, it is not antifungal cream. Derobin is an ant psoriatic medicine that works by slowing down the production of skin cells. It inhibits cell multiplication by obstructing the cell reproduction cycle.

Can Derobin be used on the face?

Your face is an area where the skin is very delicate and thin. Moreover, there are chances of skin staining, irritation and burning. Therefore, you should always consult your doctor before using it directly on your face.

Can Derobin be used for ringworm?

No, Derobin is not effective in ringworm. It is used in the treatment of psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin disorder in which skin cells get multiplied faster, creating bumpy red patches covered with white scales.