Drug Reference

Zinc Pyrithione

Other dermatologicals

← All medicines · Other dermatologicals

OTC

Fact box

Therapeutic class
Other dermatologicals
Habit forming
No
Availability
Over-the-counter (OTC)

Brand names

DHS ZincDandreneDermazincDial Dandruff ControlHead & ShouldersHead & Shoulders Damage TreatmentNioxinSelsun Blue Sensitive ScalpTheraplex ZZincon

Available as

5 MG/ML20 MG/ML1 MG/ML3 MG/ML9.5 MG/ML1 MG/ML · Topical Solution4.8 MG/ML30 MG/ML7.5 MG/ML2 MG/ML2 MG/ML · Topical Cream2.5 MG/ML10 MG/ML0.6 MG/ML1 MG/ML · Topical Cream0.01 MG/MG2.5 MG/ML · Topical Solution2.5 MG/ML · Topical Cream15 MG/ML · Topical Cream5 MG/ML · Topical Cream1.25 MG/ML · Topical Solution0.02 MG/MG15 MG/ML

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

Uses
For the relief of the symptoms of dandruff.
How to use / dosing
Apply a small amount quantity of the product into hair and massage the scalp. Rinse thoroughly with enough water, repeat if needed. For best results, use at least twice a week or as directed by a doctor.

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.

PregnancyNo information
No specific information in the FDA label.
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
For external use only. Do not use on wounds or damaged skin or on a child under 12 years of age unless directed by a physician.
Current FDA labels (DailyMed)

48 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.