Selsun Shampoo

Composition of Selsun Shampoo

Selsun Shampoo contains Selenium sulfide 2.5% w/v (medicated shampoo). It belongs to the Topical antifungal/antiseborrheic agent (selenium sulfide) class of medicines.

Uses of Selsun Shampoo

Treatment and prevention of dandruff (pityriasis capitis) and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp; also used for tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor) as directed by a doctor.

Key benefits

• Reduces dandruff and flaking
• Relieves scalp itching and irritation
• Helps control seborrhoeic dermatitis
• Decreases recurrence with maintenance use
• Effective against Malassezia-associated scalp scaling

How Selsun Shampoo works

Selenium sulfide has antifungal and cytostatic actions. It reduces the growth of Malassezia yeast and slows down excessive shedding/turnover of scalp skin cells, thereby decreasing flaking, itching and redness.

How to take Selsun Shampoo

For dandruff/seborrhoeic dermatitis: Wet hair and scalp, apply sufficient shampoo, massage to lather and leave for 2–3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly; repeat if advised. Typically use 2 times weekly for 2 weeks, then once weekly or as needed. For tinea versicolor: apply to affected skin, lather and leave 10 minutes then rinse, usually once daily for 7 days or as prescribed. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and broken/irritated skin; wash hands after use.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one — applying extra does not make up for it.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause a fall in blood pressure and a racing heart when far too much is applied to the skin. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Selsun Shampoo

Most side effects of Selsun Shampoo are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Scalp irritation
• itching
• burning or stinging
• dryness or oiliness of hair/scalp
• redness
• increased hair shedding (rare)
• hair discoloration (especially dyed/bleached or grey hair)
• unpleasant odor

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Selsun Shampoo

Warnings and precautions

For external use only. Avoid eyes and mucous membranes; if contact occurs, rinse well with water. Do not use on inflamed, broken or very irritated skin unless advised. Stop use and seek medical advice if severe irritation, rash or swelling occurs. Use cautiously in children and during pregnancy/breastfeeding—consult a doctor. Rinse thoroughly; do not leave on longer than recommended. May discolor jewelry and hair, especially with chemical treatments; avoid using within 48 hours of hair dye/perm and rinse well.

Do not take Selsun Shampoo if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Not for use on inflamed, broken or sunburnt scalp.

Interactions with other medicines

Topical interactions are minimal. Increased risk of irritation if used with other harsh/keratolytic scalp products (e.g., salicylic acid, coal tar, benzoyl peroxide, strong anti-dandruff/medicated shampoos) or immediately after chemical hair treatments.

How to store Selsun Shampoo

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Keep cap tightly closed. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Selsun Shampoo

Be consistent — irregular use gives no result. Have persistent or patchy hair loss assessed; thyroid disease, iron deficiency and other causes are treatable.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

ABBOTT HEALTHCARE LIMITED

Therapeutic class:

Antifungal (anti-dandruff)

Drug class:

Topical antifungal/antiseborrheic agent (selenium sulfide)