Beta Med (Topical)

Generic name:pyrithione (topical route) [ pir-i-THYE-one ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous topical agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 12, 2022.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• 2 in 1 Dandruff
• Beta Med
• DermaZinc
• DHS Zinc
• Skincure
• Zincon
• Znp

Available Dosage Forms:

• Cream
• Spray
• Shampoo
• Soap
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Dermatological Agent

Chemical Class: Pyrethrums

Uses for Beta Med

Pyrithione is used to help control the symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp.

This medicine is available without a prescription.

Before using Beta Med

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Although there is no specific information comparing use of pyrithione in children with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

Geriatric

Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults. Although there is no specific information comparing use of pyrithione in the elderly with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.

Interactions with medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with food/tobacco/alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Proper use of Beta Med

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain pyrithione. It may not be specific to Beta Med. Please read with care.

For best results, use this medicine at least 2 times a week or as directed by your doctor.

To use:

• Before applying this shampoo, wet the hair and scalp with lukewarm water.
• Apply enough shampoo to the scalp to work up a lat...