Selsun Suspension 120 Ml

SELSUN SUSPENSION 120 ML by ABBOTT

Selsun Suspension is a medicated shampoo from Abbott, primarily used to treat various scalp and skin conditions.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Selsun Suspension
  • Common Name: Selenium Sulfide Topical Suspension

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredients: Selenium Sulfide 2.5% w/v.
  • Other Ingredients: Bentonite, titanium dioxide, citric acid, sodium acid phosphate, glyceryl monoricinoleate S, monoethanolamine lauryl sulphate, Empigen BB, perfume, sodium chloride, and purified water.

• Uses: Selsun Suspension is an antifungal medication prescribed for the treatment, prevention, and control of:

  • Dandruff.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis (a greasy, crusting, itching scalp caused by excess oil).
  • Tinea versicolor (a fungal infection that discolors the skin). It works by reducing scalp greasiness, controlling the fungi that cause dandruff, and slowing down the growth of skin cells that lead to flaking and itching.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • For Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis: Wet hair, massage 1-2 teaspoonfuls into the scalp to form a lather, leave for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat application and rinse well. Typically, use twice weekly for two weeks, then as needed to maintain control (e.g., weekly, every two to four weeks).
  • For Tinea Versicolor: Apply to affected areas (excluding face and genitals), lather with a small amount of water, leave on skin for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat once daily for seven days.
  • Always shake the bottle well before use.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Skin irritation, itching, and redness of the scalp.
  • Dry or oily hair and scalp.
  • Temporary hair loss or increase in normal hair loss.
  • Discoloration of hair (especially grey, white, or colored hair), which can be minimized by thorough rinsing. If severe blistering, burning sensation, or irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

• Precautions:

  • For external use only. Avoid ingestion.
  • Avoid contact with eyes; if it occurs, rinse thoroughly with cool tap water immediately.
  • Do not apply to broken, inflamed, or infected skin.
  • Remove jewelry (gold, silver, other metallic objects) before use to prevent discoloration.
  • Consult a healthcare provider before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Not recommended for children under 5 years of age. Consult a healthcare professional for children under 12 years.
  • Avoid using for two days before or after hair dyeing, tinting, perming, or chemical straightening treatments.
  • Do not overuse; prolonged contact or frequent use can cause irritation.

• Storage: Store at room temperature (not above 25°C) away from direct sunlight. Keep out of the reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use after the expiry date.

What is Selsun Suspension used for?

Selsun Suspension is an anti-dandruff and antifungal medication primarily used to treat dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp (scaly patches and red skin on the scalp), and tinea versicolor (a fungal skin condition that discolors the skin). It helps relieve itching and flaking associated with these conditions.

How does Selsun Suspension work?

Selsun Suspension contains selenium sulfide as its active ingredient. Selenium sulfide works by having antifungal properties that target the fungi, such as Malassezia species, that contribute to dandruff and other skin conditions. It also has a cytostatic effect on the cells of the epidermis and follicular epithelium, which slows down the production of skin cells, thereby reducing flaking and scaling.

What is the usual dosage for Selsun Suspension?

The dosage depends on the condition being treated:

• For dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp: Massage about 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls into wet scalp, allow to remain on the scalp for 2 to 3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the application and rinse thoroughly. Typically, it is used twice a week for the first two weeks, and then less frequently (e.g., weekly, every two weeks, or every 3-4 weeks) as needed to maintain control.
• For tinea versicolor: Apply the suspension to the affected areas, lather with a small amount of water, and allow it to remain on the skin for 10 minutes. Rinse the body thoroughly. This procedure should be repeated once a day for 7 days.

Always shake the bottle well before use and wash your hands thoroughly after application.

What are the possible side effects of Selsun Suspension?

Common side effects may include skin irritation, redness, itching, peeling skin, dry skin, or temporary hair loss. Discoloration of hair, especially light, blond, gray, or chemically treated hair, can occur but can often be minimized by thorough rinsing after treatment. If you experience severe irritation, blistering, or burning, discontinue use and consult your doctor.

Is Selsun Suspension safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• Pregnancy: Selsun (selenium sulfide) is generally classified as Pregnancy Category C when used for tinea versicolor. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted, and it's not known if it can cause fetal harm when applied topically to a pregnant woman. It should only be used during pregnancy if prescribed by a doctor, especially for tinea versicolor. Some information suggests no effects are anticipated, but consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
• Breastfeeding: It is unknown if selenium sulfide topical passes into breast milk. While some sources suggest little to no risk, caution is recommended, and it is best to consult your doctor before using Selsun Suspension if you are breastfeeding.

Can Selsun Suspension be taken with other medications?

Interactions with other systemic medications are generally not expected as Selsun Suspension is for topical use with low systemic absorption. However, it is advisable to avoid using other topical medications on the same affected area unless approved by your doctor, as they may affect the absorption or effectiveness of Selsun Suspension. Also, rinse the hair thoroughly before dyeing, tinting, or perming, and do not use Selsun Suspension two days before or after such hair treatments to prevent potential discoloration or reactions.

What precautions should be taken when using Selsun Suspension?

• Selsun Suspension is for external use only. Do not ingest it.
• Avoid using it on broken skin, inflamed areas, or open lesions, as this may increase absorption.
• Keep it out of your eyes, genital area, and skin folds, as it can cause irritation and burning. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately and thoroughly with cold water.
• Remove jewelry (especially gold, silver, or other metallic objects) before use to prevent discoloration.
• Do not leave the product on your hair or skin for longer than the recommended time to avoid irritation.
• Consult a healthcare professional before using Selsun Suspension for children under 12 years of age.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss an application of Selsun Suspension, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

How should Selsun Suspension be stored?

Store Selsun Suspension in a closed container at room temperature, ideally below 25°C (77°F), away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the medicine. Keep it out of the reach of children.