selenium sulfide non-prescription
Selenium sulfide OTC is a 1% shampoo that's available over the counter. It's used to control flaking and itching from dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp. This medication works by slowing down the shedding of skin cells. You use it by massaging the shampoo into wet hair, then rinsing it off. You might need to use selenium sulfide OTC at least twice a week to see results. This medication might cause mild side effects, like skin irritation, temporary hair discoloration, and a dry scalp.
What is Selenium sulfide OTC?
What is Selenium sulfide OTC used for?
- Control flaking and itching caused by dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis
How Selenium sulfide OTC works
Selenium sulfide OTC treats dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp by slowing down the shedding of skin cells.
Drug facts
Side effects of Selenium sulfide OTC
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Discoloration of hair
- Oily or dry hair and scalp
Less Common Side Effects
- Skin irritation
- More hair loss than usual
Pros and cons of Selenium sulfide OTC
Pros
- Available OTC without a prescription
- Less likely to cause side effects than prescription-strength selenium sulfide
Cons
- Can sometimes discolor hair
- Can make the scalp become oily or dry
Pharmacist tips for Selenium sulfide OTC
- Remove any jewelry before using selenium sulfide OTC. This medication can damage silver, gold, and metallic jewelry.
- Don't apply selenium sulfide OTC to broken skin or inflamed areas. Don't allow it to come into contact with your eyes, mouth, nose, or genitals. Applying selenium sulfide OTC to these areas can cause your skin to become very irritated.
- Selenium sulfide OTC can cause discoloration of your hair. To lower the risk of this side effect, rinse your scalp and hair well after each treatment.
- Selenium sulfide OTC can cause your hair and scalp to become dry or oily. If you experience these side effects, ask your dermatologist for recommendations on how to minimize the symptoms.
- It's unknown if this product can harm an unborn baby. Therefore, it's not recommended to use selenium sulfide OTC during pregnancy. Speak with your prescriber if you find out you're pregnant while using this medication.
Common questions about Selenium sulfide OTC
Yes, selenium sulfide OTC is considered an antifungal medication. It helps control the growth of a certain fungus that causes skin irritation and flaking.
People who used prescription-strength selenium sulfide 2.25% or 2.3% shampoo did notice more hair loss after starting this medication. Because selenium sulfide OTC 1% contains a lower strength of the medication, it's less likely to cause this side effect. But more research is needed in this area. Speak with your HCP about your concerns for hair loss before using this product.
Selenium sulfide OTC 1% shampoo can be found at most drug stores. If you're struggling to locate it in the shampoo aisle, ask your pharmacist for assistance. Note that higher strength shampoos (selenium sulfide 2.25% or 2.3%) are available by prescription-only and aren't sold over-the-counter.
Based on instructions from the manufacturer, you can use selenium sulfide OTC 1% shampoo at least twice a week. But ask your HCP if it's appropriate for you to use this medication everyday. Using this shampoo might raise the risk for skin irritation.
Prescription-strength selenium sulfide contains a higher concentration of the medication than non-prescription (over-the-counter) selenium sulfide. For example, prescription selenium sulfide comes as 2.5% lotion, as well as 2.25% and 2.3% shampoo. But selenium sulfide OTC comes as 1% shampoo. In addition, prescription-strength selenium sulfide can treat tinea versicolor, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis. But over-the-counter selenium sulfide only treats dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
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Risks and warnings for Selenium sulfide OTC
Selenium sulfide OTC can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
For external use only
Only use selenium sulfide OTC on the skin or scalp. Don't let it come in contact with your eyes, mouth, nose, or genitals. You should also avoid applying it to broken skin or inflamed areas. Serious skin irritation can occur if applied to these areas. If an allergic reaction happens, you should stop using selenium sulfide OTC and contact your prescriber.
Pregnancy
Selenium sulfide OTC hasn't been studied in pregnant females, and it isn't known whether it's safe for an unborn baby. Though this is generally a concern with prescription selenium sulfide, it's recommended you avoid using it during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or would like to become pregnant, speak with your healthcare team to discuss the safest option for you to treat your symptoms.
Selenium sulfide OTC dosage
Typical dosage for Selenium sulfide OTC
Shake the bottle well before using. Wet your hair, apply selenium sulfide OTC onto the scalp and massage gently into a full lather, then rinse off thoroughly. Use it at least twice a week or as instructed by your healthcare professional (HCP).
