Selenium Sulfide (On the skin)
se-LEE-nee-um SUL-fide
Treats dandruff, fungus infections of the skin (tinea versicolor), and seborrhea of the scalp.
Drug classes
Antiseborrheic, Dermatological Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Selenium sulfide 1% and 2.5% strengths are used on the scalp to help control the symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Selenium sulfide 2.5% strength is used also on the body to treat tinea versicolor (a type of fungus infection of the skin).
In the United States, the 2.5% strength is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Cream, Foam, Shampoo, Liquid
Your doctor will tell you how much to use and how often. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor ordered.
Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
Use this medicine on the skin or scalp only.
Keep the medicine away from your eyes. If you do get some in your eyes, rinse them with water.
Shake the bottle well before use. Take off any jewelry before you use this medicine.
To treat a skin infection, apply to the affected areas and lather. Allow the lather to stay on your skin for 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
To treat seborrhea or dandruff, put a small amount in your hair and lather. Wait 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Repeat the application and rinse thoroughly.
Wash your hands well after applying selenium sulfide.
If a dose is missed:
Apply the missed dose as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for your next treatment, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed application.
Do not apply twice as much medicine at one time.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
Keep this medicine in its original tightly closed container, away from heat or direct light. Do not freeze.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to selenium sulfide.
Warnings
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using selenium sulfide.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Oily or dry hair or scalp
Change in hair color
Skin irritation
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Dandrex, Rite Aid Dandruff, Rite Aid Renewal Dandruff Shampoo, SelRx, Selenos, Selseb, Selsun Blue Medicated Treatment, Tersi Foam, Versel
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
