Westragel (anthralin)

Westragel is a topical microemulsion gel formulation containing 1% anthralin (also known as dithranol), a hydroxyanthrone derivative used for the treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis. Anthralin works by accumulating in mitochondria and inhibiting DNA synthesis, which reduces the excessive proliferation of keratinocytes characteristic of psoriatic lesions. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Westragel was specifically designed to optimize the release and skin permeation of anthralin, making it particularly suitable for short-contact anthralin therapy (SCAT). This treatment approach involves applying the medication for a brief period (typically 10 to 30 minutes) before washing it off, which maintains therapeutic efficacy while minimizing common side effects such as perilesional skin irritation and the staining of skin and clothing.

Brand names

Westragel

Other names

dithranol1,8-dihydroxyanthrone1% Westragel