Drug Reference

Piroctone Olamine

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OTC

Fact box

Habit forming
No
Availability
Over-the-counter (OTC)

Brand names

Keratolux (piroctone)

Available as

5 MG/ML0.8 MG/ML

FDA label sections are from openFDA and may not reflect the most recent labeling — confirm against the current DailyMed label.

Uses
Uses Helps prevent and control recurrence of the symptoms of dandruff Helps prevent recurrence of the flaking and itching associated with dandruff
How to use / dosing
Directions Shake well before use Apply to affected areas one to four times daily or as directed by a doctor For best results, use at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor Application: Hold 15-20 cm (4-6 inches) from dry scalp and spray onto affected areas. Use fingertips to massage into scalp for 1-2 minutes until fully absorbed. Do not rinse.

Safety advice

Conservative summary derived from FDA labeling — defaults to “consult your doctor” unless the label is explicit. Not a substitute for your clinician’s advice.

PregnancyConsult your doctor
…is broken or inflamed On children under 12 years of age If you are pregnant When using this product Avoid contact with eyes.…
BreastfeedingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label. Check LactMed →
AlcoholNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
DrivingNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
KidneyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
LiverNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
Warnings & precautions
Warnings For external use only. Do not use On scalp that is broken or inflamed On children under 12 years of age If you are pregnant When using this product Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse eyes thoroughly with water ​Avoid contact with mucous membranes. Stop use and ask a doctor if Condition worsens or does not improve after regular use ​Allergic reaction occurs or irritation persists
Current FDA labels (DailyMed)

4 marketed products on record (RxNorm)

Authoritative sources

Reference only — not clinical advice. Verify against current FDA labeling and consult a licensed provider. About half of pediatric drug use is off-label and is not reflected in FDA labels; absence of pediatric information does not mean a medicine is unused or unsafe in children.