Salex

Browse PDR's full list of drug information

Salex

Classes

Keratolytic Agents
Other Topical Agents for Acne
Topical Antipsoriasis Agents
Topical Scalp Antipsoriasis and Seborrheic Dermatitis Agents, including Keratolytics

Adverse Reactions
Moderate

erythema / Early / Incidence not known

Mild

anaphylactoid reactions / Rapid / 0-1.0
skin irritation / Early / Incidence not known
pruritus / Rapid / Incidence not known

Common Brand Names

Akurza, Aliclen, Bensal HP, Clear Away, Clear Away Liquid, Clear Away One Step, Clear Away Plantar, Clearasil 3-in-1, Clearasil Blackhead Clearing Scrub, Clearasil Oil Control, Clearasil Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment, Clearasil Total Control, Clearasil Ultra Astringent, Clearasil Ultra Scrub, Compound W, Compound W Total Care Wart & Skin, Corn/Callus Remover, Curad Mediplast, DermacinRx Atrix, Dermarest Psoriasis Scalp Treatment, Dermarest Psoriasis Shampoo plus Conditioner, Dermarest Psoriasis Skin Treatment, Dr. Scholl's Callus Removers, Dr. Scholl's Corn Removers, Dr. Scholl's Extra Thick Callus Remover, Dr. Scholl's One Step Callus Remover, Dr. Scholl's One Step Corn Removers, Dr. Scholl's Ultra, Dr.Scholl's Dual Action FREEZE AWAY, Dr.Scholl's Duragel, DuoFilm Wart Remover, Freezone, Gold Bond Psoriasis Relief, Gordofilm, Hydrisalic, Ionil, Keralyt, Keralyt 5, Keralyt Scalp Complete, MOSCO Callus & Corn Remover, MOSCO One Step Corn Remover, Neutrogena Acne Wash, Neutrogena T/Sal Scalp, Occlusal-HP, P&S, RE SA, SalAC, Salactic Film, Salacyn, Salex, Salimez, Salisol, Salisol Forte, Salitech, Salitech Forte, Salitop, Salvax, Scalpicin 2 in 1 Anti-Dandruff, Selsun Blue, Thera-Sal, UltraSal-ER, VIRASAL, Wart-Off, XALIX

Dea Class

OTC, Rx

Description

Topical keratolytic agent
Used for hyperkeratotic skin disorders such as common and plantar warts, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, calluses, and corns; also used for acne
Prolonged or repeated daily use over large areas may cause salicylism, especially in children and patients with renal or hepatic impairment

Dosage And Indications
For the treatment of verruca vulgaris, verruca plantaris, and hyperkeratotic lesions (e.g., corns and calluses). Topical dosage (17% gel and liquid) Adults, Adolescents, and Children

Apply 1 drop at a time to sufficiently cover the wart, corn, or callus; avoid applying to healthy skin. Allow to dry. Repeat once or twice daily as needed (until wart, corn, or callus is removed) for up to 12 weeks. NOTE: Topical salicylic acid is recommended for the treatment of cutaneous warts in children ; however, data specific to young children is limited. A 15% topical patch is indicated for children 2 years and older, whereas the topical jelly containing 40% salicylic acid has been reported in children 4 years and older.

Topical dosage (40% medicated topical patches) Adults, Adolescents, and Children

Apply 1 patch to wart, callus, or corn. Repeat every 48 hours as needed for up to 12 weeks. NOTE: Topical salicylic acid is recommended to treat cutaneous warts in children ; however, data specific to young children is limited. A 15% topical patch is indicated for children 2 years and older, whereas the topical jelly containing 40% salicylic acid has been reported in children 4 years and older.

Topical dosage (15% medicated topical patches) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply 1 patch at bedtime and remove in the morning after at least 8 hours. Repeat every 24 hours until wart is removed for up to 12 weeks. Patches may be trimmed to the appropriate size to cover the wart, but avoid contact with healthy skin.

Topical dosage (23%, 26%, 27.5%, 28%, and 28.5% topical liquid) Adults, Adolescents, and Children

Apply to entire wart surface using supplied brush; avoid applying to healthy skin. Allow first application to dry and repeat. Apply once or twice daily. Maximum resolution may be expected after 4 to 6 weeks. NOTE: Topical salicylic acid is recommended to treat cutaneous warts in children ; however, data specific to young children is limited. A 15% topical patch is indicated for children 2 years and older, whereas the topical jelly containing 40% salicylic acid has been reported in children 4 years and older.

Topical dosage (6% topical gel, cream, and lotion) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply to affected area at bedtime. Cover the treated area. In those areas where occlusion is difficult or impossible, application may be made more frequently. Wash off in the morning.

Topical dosage (6% topical foam) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply to the affected area twice daily and rub in until completely absorbed.

Topical dosage (10% cream) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply topically to the affected area at bedtime, and wash off in the morning. Preferably, skin should be hydrated for at least 5 minutes prior to application.

For the treatment of ichthyosis (i.e., vulgaris, sex-linked and lamellar), keratosis (i.e., palmaris, plantaris, and pilaris) and pityriasis rubra pilaris. Topical dosage (6% topical gel, cream and lotion) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply to affected area at bedtime. Cover the treated area. In those areas where occlusion is difficult or impossible, application may be made more frequently. Wash off in the morning. Once clearing is apparent, occasional use will usually maintain the remission.

Topical dosage (6% topical foam) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply to the affected area twice daily and rub in until completely absorbed.

Topical dosage (5% topical lotion) Adults

Apply to affected area at bedtime. Cover the treated area. In those areas where occlusion is difficult or impossible, may be applied more frequently.

Topical dosage (10% cream) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply topically to the affected area at bedtime, and wash off in the morning. Preferably, skin should be hydrated for at least 5 minutes prior to application.

For the treatment of psoriasis. For the treatment of psoriasis involving the body. Topical dosage (3% cream, 2% and 5% gel, or 2% and 3% lotion) Adults

Apply topically to the affected skin area(s) 1 to 4 times daily. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

Apply topically to the affected skin area(s) 1 to 4 times daily.

Topical dosage (5% lotion) Adults

Apply topically to the affected skin area(s) at bedtime and cover the treated area; wash off in the morning. May apply more frequently to those areas where occlusion is difficult or not possible. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

Topical dosage (6% cream, gel, or lotion) Adults

Apply topically to the affected skin area(s) at bedtime and cover the treated area; wash off in the morning. May apply more frequently to those areas where occlusion is difficult or not possible. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

Children and Adolescents 2 to 17 years

Apply topically to the affected skin area(s) at bedtime and cover the treated area; wash off in the morning. May apply more frequently to those areas where occlusion is difficult or not possible. Pretreating involved skin with 6% to 10% salicylic acid for 1 week may enhance the efficacy of subsequent calcipotriene monotherapy. However, care must be taken when salicylic acid is used with calcipotriene because the acid pH of salicylic acid will inactivate calcipotriene when the 2 are given simultaneously.

Topical dosage (10% cream) Adults

Apply topically to the affected skin area(s) at bedtime; wash off in the morning. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

For the treatment of scalp psoriasis. Topical dosage (5% or 6% gel) Adults

Apply topically to the psoriatic scalp area(s) once daily until scalp improves, then once or twice weekly or as needed; wash off after 10 to 20 minutes, initially but may leave on for up to 1 hour as treatment progresses. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

Children and Adolescents 2 to 17 years

Apply topically to the psoriatic scalp area(s) once daily until scalp improves, then once or twice weekly or as needed; wash off after 10 to 20 minutes, initially but may leave on for up to 1 hour as treatment progresses. Pretreating involved skin with 6% to 10% salicylic acid for 1 week may enhance the efficacy of subsequent calcipotriene monotherapy. However, care must be taken when salicylic acid is used with calcipotriene because the acid pH of salicylic acid will inactivate calcipotriene when the 2 are given simultaneously.

Topical dosage (5% or 6% shampoo) Adults

Apply a liberal amount to wet hair and massage into lather once daily until scalp improves, then as needed; leave on for several minutes, then rinse. Alternately, may apply topically to the psoriatic scalp area(s) once daily until scalp improves, then as needed; wash off after 5 minutes, initially and gradually increase contact time up to 1 hour. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

Children and Adolescents 2 to 17 years

Apply a liberal amount to wet hair and massage into lather once daily until scalp improves, then as needed; leave on for several minutes, then rinse. Alternately, may apply topically to the psoriatic scalp area(s) once daily until scalp improves, then as needed; wash off after 5 minutes, initially and gradually increase contact time up to 1 hour. Pretreating involved skin with 6% to 10% salicylic acid for 1 week may enhance the efficacy of subsequent calcipotriene monotherapy. However, care must be taken when salicylic acid is used with calcipotriene because the acid pH of salicylic acid will inactivate calcipotriene when the 2 are given simultaneously.

Topical dosage (10% cream) Adults

Apply topically to the psoriatic scalp area(s) at bedtime; wash off in the morning. Topical salicylic acid can be used for 8 to 16 weeks for the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis. The combination of salicylic acid with topical corticosteroids can be used for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis (body surface area of 20% or less).

Children and Adolescents 2 to 17 years

Apply topically to the psoriatic scalp area(s) at bedtime; wash off in the morning. Pretreating involved skin with 6% to 10% salicylic acid for 1 week may enhance the efficacy of subsequent calcipotriene monotherapy. However, care must be taken when salicylic acid is used with calcipotriene because the acid pH of salicylic acid will inactivate calcipotriene when the 2 are given simultaneously.

For the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. Topical dosage (2% and 5% shampoo) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply to scalp after wetting hair. Work into lather, leave on for several minutes, then rinse thoroughly. The shampoo may be used daily until the condition clears, then as needed to maintain remission.

Topical dosage (2% and 3% topical preparations) Adults, Adolescents, and Children 2 years and older

Apply to the affected areas 1 to 4 times daily.

For the treatment of acne vulgaris. Topical dosage Adults, Adolescents, and Children

Apply suitable topical preparation containing 0.5% to 2% salicylic acid 1 to 3 times per day. Because excessive drying may occur, start with 1 application daily and gradually increase to 2 to 3 times daily. May reduce application to once every other day if bothersome drying or peeling occurs. NOTE: Salicylic acid concentrations ranging up to 10% have been recommended for acne in adults and children as young as 2 years; however, 2% is the maximum strength allowed in OTC acne products in the United States.

For the treatment of inflammation and irritation associated with dermatitis, eczematoid conditions and complications associated with pyodermas; and for the treatment of insect bites, burns, and fungal infections. Topical dosage Adults

Apply to the affected area twice daily. Reevaluate treatment if there is no improvement in 7 days.

Dosing Considerations
Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustments are needed.

Renal Impairment

No dosage adjustments are needed.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Adapalene: (Moderate) Concomitant use of other potentially irritating topical products with adapalene should be done cautiously because of additive local irritation. Particular caution should be exercised in using adapalene in combination with preparations containing salicylic acid. If these preparations have been used, it is advisable not to start therapy with adapalene until the effects of such preparations in the skin have subsided.
Adapalene; Benzoyl Peroxide: (Moderate) Concomitant use of other potentially irritating topical products with adapalene should be done cautiously because of additive local irritation. Particular caution should be exercised in using adapalene in combination with preparations containing salicylic acid. If these preparations have been used, it is advisable not to start therapy with adapalene until the effects of such preparations in the skin have subsided. (Moderate) Concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and topical products containing salicylic acid on the same area of skin will cause additive irritant and drying effects. Reduction in the dose or temporary discontinuation of the benzoyl peroxide product may be needed until skin irritation resolves.
Aminosalicylate sodium, Aminosalicylic acid: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine; Orphenadrine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Citric Acid; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Dipyridamole: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Omeprazole: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Benzoyl Peroxide: (Moderate) Concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and topical products containing salicylic acid on the same area of skin will cause additive irritant and drying effects. Reduction in the dose or temporary discontinuation of the benzoyl peroxide product may be needed until skin irritation resolves.
Benzoyl Peroxide; Clindamycin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and topical products containing salicylic acid on the same area of skin will cause additive irritant and drying effects. Reduction in the dose or temporary discontinuation of the benzoyl peroxide product may be needed until skin irritation resolves. (Moderate) When concomitantly prescribed for acne therapy, apply salicylic acid and clindamycin topical solutions separately, at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Benzoyl Peroxide; Erythromycin: (Moderate) Concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and topical products containing salicylic acid on the same area of skin will cause additive irritant and drying effects. Reduction in the dose or temporary discontinuation of the benzoyl peroxide product may be needed until skin irritation resolves.
Benzoyl Peroxide; Sulfur: (Moderate) Concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and topical products containing salicylic acid on the same area of skin will cause additive irritant and drying effects. Reduction in the dose or temporary discontinuation of the benzoyl peroxide product may be needed until skin irritation resolves.
Bismuth Subsalicylate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Bismuth Subsalicylate; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Butalbital; Aspirin; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Choline Salicylate; Magnesium Salicylate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Clindamycin: (Moderate) When concomitantly prescribed for acne therapy, apply salicylic acid and clindamycin topical solutions separately, at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Clindamycin; Tretinoin: (Moderate) When concomitantly prescribed for acne therapy, apply salicylic acid and clindamycin topical solutions separately, at different times of the day to minimize skin irritation, unless directed otherwise by the prescriber. If skin irritation occurs, a decrease in dose or frequency of one or both agents may be necessary.
Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate; Sodium Biphosphate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Magnesium Salicylate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Methenamine; Sodium Salicylate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Retinoids: (Moderate) Dryness of the skin and mucus membranes are common side effects of retinoid therapy. Simultaneous use of retinoids and topical drying agents, such as salicylic acid, can potentiate the drying effects of retinoids on the skin. Be alert for signs of skin irritation, the offending topical agents may need to be used less often or discontinued during retinoid therapy.
Salicylates: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Salsalate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of salicylic acid with other drugs which may contribute to elevated serum salicylate levels (e.g., oral aspirin or other oral salicylates and other salicylate containing medications, such as sports injury creams) should be avoided. Concurrent use may result in excessive exposure to salicylic acid. Consider replacing aspirin therapy with an alternative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent that is not salicylate based where appropriate.
Tretinoin; Benzoyl Peroxide: (Moderate) Concurrent use of benzoyl peroxide and topical products containing salicylic acid on the same area of skin will cause additive irritant and drying effects. Reduction in the dose or temporary discontinuation of the benzoyl peroxide product may be needed until skin irritation resolves.
Trifarotene: (Moderate) Avoid concurrent use of trifarotene with other topical products that may dry or irritate the skin, such as salicylic acid.

How Supplied

Akurza/Clearasil Total Control/Clearasil Ultra Scrub/DermacinRx Atrix/Gold Bond Psoriasis Relief/Neutrogena Acne Wash/RE SA/Salacyn/Salex/Salicylic Acid/Salimez/Salitop Topical Cream: 2%, 3%, 6%
Akurza/RE SA/Salacyn/Salex/Salicylic Acid/Salitech/Salitech Forte/Salitop Topical Lotion: 5%, 6%
Aliclen/Dermarest Psoriasis Shampoo plus Conditioner/Ionil/Keralyt/Keralyt 5/Keralyt Scalp Complete/Neutrogena T/Sal Scalp/P&S/Salex/Salicylic Acid/Selsun Blue/Thera-Sal Topical Shampoo: 2%, 3%, 5%, 6%
Bensal HP/Salicylic Acid Topical Ointment: 3%
Clear Away Liquid/Compound W/Corn/Callus Remover/DermacinRx Atrix/Dermarest Psoriasis Scalp Treatment/Dr.Scholl's Dual Action FREEZE AWAY/DuoFilm Wart Remover/Freezone/Gordofilm/MOSCO Callus & Corn Remover/Occlusal-HP/Salactic Film/Salicylic Acid/Salisol/Salisol Forte/UltraSal-ER/VIRASAL/Wart-Off/XALIX Topical Sol: 2%, 3%, 17%, 17.6%, 23%, 26%, 27.5%, 28%, 28.5%
Clear Away/Clear Away One Step/Clear Away Plantar/Compound W/Curad Mediplast/Dr. Scholl's Callus Removers/Dr. Scholl's Corn Removers/Dr. Scholl's Extra Thick Callus Remover/Dr. Scholl's One Step Callus Remover/Dr. Scholl's One Step Corn Removers/Dr. Scholl's Ultra/Dr.Scholl's Duragel/MOSCO One Step Corn Remover/Salicylic Acid Topical Disc: 40%
Clearasil 3-in-1/Clearasil Blackhead Clearing Scrub/Clearasil Oil Control/Clearasil Ultra Astringent/DermacinRx Atrix/Neutrogena Acne Wash Topical Susp: 2%
Clearasil Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Topical Swab: 2%
Compound W/Compound W Total Care Wart & Skin/Dermarest Psoriasis Skin Treatment/Keralyt/Keralyt 5/Keralyt Scalp Complete/Salicylic Acid Topical Gel: 3%, 5%, 6%, 17%
Salicylic Acid/Salvax Topical Foam: 6%

Maximum Dosage
Adults

No maximum dosage information is available.

Geriatric

No maximum dosage information is available.

Adolescents

No maximum dosage information is available.

Children

No maximum dosage information is available.

Infants

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Neonates

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Mechanism Of Action

Salicylic acid exhibits keratolytic action by dissolution of intercellular cement substance causing desquamation of the horny layer of skin.

Pharmacokinetics

Salicylic acid is administered topically.

Topical Route

Following topical application, percutaneous absorption of salicylic acid does occur; however, systemic exposure is considered negligible with normal prescription use. Roughly 10% of applied salicylates can remain in the skin after dermal application; however, acute toxicity via dermal exposure is rarely seen for salicylic acid. Salicylism has occurred using high concentrations of salicylic acid on widespread areas of hyperkeratotic skin, but cases resulting from topically applied salicylic acid cosmetic or acne products have not been reported.

Pregnancy And Lactation
Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Salicylic acid products should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit to the mother outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.

It is not known whether topically applied salicylic acid is excreted into breast milk. According to the manufacturer, salicylic acid should not be used during breast-feeding. However, if the drug is used by nursing mothers, care should be taken to avoid application to the skin of the breast during lactation; oral ingestion by the infant could be harmful. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition. If a breast-feeding infant experiences an adverse effect related to a maternally administered drug, healthcare providers are encouraged to report the adverse effect to the FDA.