Selenium sulfide - Topical

Selenium sulfide is used to treat various fungal infections of the skin, including seborrhoeic dermatitis (a skin condition that causes scaly patches, red skin and dandruff on the scalp) and dandruff (a skin condition characterised by itching and flaking of the skin on the scalp).

This medicine may also be used to treat tinea versicolor (a fungal skin infection which causes skin to develop white, yellow, red, pink or brown spots).

Apply Selenium sulfide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as a shampoo, lotion, or suspension.

If you are using the shampoo or lotion, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Shake well before using.
3. Apply a sufficient amount onto wet hair and scalp, then gently massage. Leave the shampoo or lotion on for a few minutes. Do not cover or wrap the area unless instructed by the doctor.
4. Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly, then let your hair dry.
5. Wash your hands after using.
6. Replace the cap of the bottle.

If you are using the suspension, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Shake the bottle well before using.
3. If you are using the medicine for scalp treatment, apply the suspension onto wet hair and scalp. If you are using the medicine for skin treatment, rub the suspension gently on the affected and immediate surrounding area(s), then leave it on for 10 minutes. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
4. Rinse your hair or scalp, or the area where the medicine was applied thoroughly.
5. Wash your hands after using.
6. Replace the cap of the bottle.

Avoid contact of this medicine with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection.

Selenium sulfide must be used regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not apply to a broken or inflamed area.

Maintain good hygiene as this is important in managing fungal infections.

Keep a towel or flannel for your own use. Do not share clothing, especially those that come into direct contact with the affected area. Wash them properly and change them frequently to avoid spreading the infection to other areas of your body or to other people.

Selenium sulfide may cause any of the following side effects: hair or skin discolouration, hair thinning, and irritation at the application site.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are using any other creams, ointments, or other skin products on the affected area.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.