Scytera

Generic name: coal tar topical

Medically reviewed by A Ras MD.

What is Scytera?

Scytera is a prescription medicine that is used to treat psoriasis.

Description

Scyter Foam is an emollient foam containing 10% coal tar topical solution (Liquor Carbonis Detergens) equivalent to 2% coal tar.

Before taking Scytera, tell your doctor:

If you are allergic to Scytera; any part of this medicine; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
If you have lupus.
If your skin is sensitive to light.
If a large area needs to be treated.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with this medicine.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Scytera with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Scytera?

Tell all of your health care providers that you take Scytera. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
This medicine may stain fingernails, hair, and skin.
Protect clothing and fabrics from staining.
You may get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen and wear clothing and eyewear that protects you from the sun.
Do not use coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) unless told to do so by the doctor.
Use of other skin products while using Scytera may cause more irritation.
If you are getting any kind of light therapy, talk with your doctor.
Do not use longer than you have been told by the doctor.
This medicine may cause harm if swallowed. If Scytera is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using Scytera while you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.

How is Scytera best taken?

Use Scytera as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

Do not take Scytera by mouth. Use on your skin only. Keep out of your mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
Avoid putting on healthy skin.
Wash your hands before and after use. Do not wash your hands after use if putting this on your hand.
Clean affected part before use. Make sure to dry well.
Shake well before use.
Turn the can upside down and put a little bit of foam right into the palm of your hand or on the affected part. Rub in gently.
This medicine may catch on fire. Do not use near an open flame or while smoking.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

Put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
Do not put on 2 doses or extra doses.

What are the side effects of Scytera that I need to call my doctor about immediately?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Very bad skin irritation.

What are some other side effects of Scytera?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

Irritation where Scytera is used.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If overdose is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Scytera?

Store at room temperature.
Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
Protect from heat and sunlight. Do not puncture or burn even if it seems empty.
Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.