Selenium disulfide
Selenium disulfide, also known as selenium sulfide, is a chemical compound and medication used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and pityriasis versicolor. It is applied to the affected area as a lotion or shampoo. Symptoms frequently return if treatment is stopped.
| Clinical data | |
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| Trade names | Selseb, Selsun Blue, others |
| Other names | Selenium sulfide |
| AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
| MedlinePlus | a682258 |
| Routes of administration | Topical |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.028.458 |
| Chemical and physical data | |
| Formula | S2Se |
| Molar mass | 143.09 g·mol−1 |
| 3D model (JSmol) | |
| Density | 3 g/cm3 |
| Melting point | 111 °C (232 °F) |
| Boiling point | 118 to 119 °C (244 to 246 °F) (decomposes) |
| Solubility in water | negligible mg/mL (20 °C) |
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Side effects may include hair discoloration, skin irritation, and risk of systemic absorption and toxicity, among others. Use is not recommended in children less than 2–5 years old. Use in pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been studied. It consists of a mixture of inorganic covalent compounds having an approximate empirical formulas of SeS2. Selenium disulfide acts as a keratolytic and antifungal agent.
Selenium disulfide was approved for medical use in the United States at least as early as 1951. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Selenium disulfide is available as a generic medication and over the counter.