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P and S
Generic name: salicylic acid topical
Brand names: Acnevir, CeraVe SA, Clean and Clear Blackhead Eraser Facial Scrub, Compound W, Compound W One Step Plantar Pads, Compound W Total Care, Denorex Extra Strength Shampoo Plus Conditioner, DermalZone, Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated, Dermarest Psoriasis Medicated Moisturizer, Dermarest Psoriasis Overnight Treatment, Dermarest Psoriasis Skin Treatment, DHS Sal, Dr Scholl's Callus Removers, Dr Scholl's Clear Away Plantar Wart, Dr Scholl's Clear Away Wart Remover, Dr Scholl's Corn Removers Small, Dr Scho
What is P and S?
P and S (for the skin) is used to treat acne, eczema, dandruff, seborrhea or psoriasis, corns, calluses, warts, and to help prevent symptoms from coming back.
P and S may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
P and S can cause a serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have: hives, itching, wheezing or difficulty breathing, feeling light-headed, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use P and S if you are allergic to it.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if P and S is safe to use if you have:
- blood circulation problems;
- skin tenderness or redness;
- diabetes; or
- liver or kidney disease.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Using this medicine in a child or teenager with flu symptoms or chickenpox can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye's syndrome.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
P and S side effects
P and S can cause a serious allergic reaction or severe skin irritation. Stop using P and S and get emergency medical help if you have: wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, itching, feeling light-headed, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Also stop using P and S and call your doctor right away if you have:
- severe burning, stinging, peeling, dryness, or irritation after using this medicine.
Common side effects of P and S may include:
- minor skin irritation, rash, itching, stinging, dryness; or
- color changes in treated skin.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I use P and S?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
P and S is available in many different forms, such as liquid, gel, lotion, cream, ointment, foam, soap, shampoo, and cloth pads.
Do not switch brand forms without advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Taking more than your recommended dose will not make this medicine more effective, and may cause serious side effects.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Ask your doctor before using P and S if the condition covers a large area of the body.
Do not bandage treated skin or expose it to heat. Your skin may absorb the medicine, which could cause harmful effects.
Do not use P and S to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.
Do not touch the tip of the ointment tube or place it directly on the skin. A contaminated tube can infect your skin.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Shake the P and S foam well before each use. Turn the medicine canister upside down to dispense the foam.
Store P and S away from open flame or high heat. Do not puncture or burn an empty container.
Store this medicine in the original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
P and S is used as needed. If you are following a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if someone accidentally swallows the medicine.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using over-the-counter medicines that might have ingredients like P and S.
Do not use P and S on open wounds or on skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated.
Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes or mouth. Rinse with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth.
Some P and S products can catch fire. Do not use them near high heat or open flame. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.
Do not use other medications on the areas you treat with P and S, unless your doctor tells you to.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect P and S?
Medicine that you put on your skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you take, but many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are currently using, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Common questions about salicylic acid
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.