Selenium Sulfide API Manufacturers & Suppliers
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Selenium Sulfide | CAS No: 7488-56-4 | GMP-certified suppliers
A medication that supports topical management of tinea versicolor, tinea capitis, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis for reliable dermatological API sourcing.
Therapeutic categories
Primary indications
- For treatment of tinea versicolor, tinea capitis, dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp
Product Snapshot
- Topical dermatologic preparations supplied as shampoos, lotions, suspensions, foams, and other liquid vehicles
- Used for management of tinea versicolor, tinea capitis, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis
- Approved in the US and Canada for topical use
Clinical Overview
Pharmacologically, selenium sulfide functions as both an antifungal and a cytostatic agent. It demonstrates pronounced activity against Malassezia furfur and other organisms associated with superficial mycoses, including Microsporum species and Trichophyton species. Activity has also been documented against Pityrosporon species. A micronized 0.6 percent form has been shown to be effective for dandruff in clinical use contexts. Its sporicidal effect on Trichophyton tonsurans supports its role in adjunctive management of tinea capitis, particularly in pediatric populations.
The mechanism of action is primarily antimitotic. Selenium sulfide reduces epidermal cell turnover by decreasing thymidine incorporation into DNA of dermal epithelial cells. This reduction in proliferation helps normalize scaling and flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Additional local irritant, mild antibacterial, and antifungal effects may contribute to overall clinical benefit, especially in polymicrobial scalp conditions.
Systemic absorption following topical use is generally low when applied as directed and rinsed off after short contact periods. Therefore, pharmacokinetic parameters such as distribution, metabolism, and elimination are not well defined. Safety considerations mainly involve local effects, including irritation, oiliness or dryness of hair and scalp, and potential discoloration of hair or certain cosmetic treatments. Prolonged contact with skin or occlusive application can increase irritation risk.
Common usage contexts include medicated shampoos and dermatological preparations marketed in multiple regions. For API procurement, sourcing should focus on material identity, particle size control, and impurity profiling appropriate for topical formulations, with compliance to regional pharmacopeial or quality standards.
Identification & chemistry
| Generic name | Selenium Sulfide |
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| Molecule type | Small molecule |
| CAS | 7488-56-4 |
| UNII | Z69D9E381Q |
| DrugBank ID | DB00971 |
Pharmacology
| Summary | Selenium sulfide reduces epidermal cell turnover through antimitotic activity and exerts local antifungal, antibacterial, and irritant effects. It targets organisms such as Malassezia and various dermatophytes, including sporicidal action against Trichophyton species. These pharmacologic actions support its use in scalp and skin conditions characterized by fungal overgrowth and hyperproliferation. |
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| Mechanism of action | Topical selenium sulfide may act by an antimitotic action, resulting in a reduction in the turnover of epidermal cells. It also has local irritant, antibacterial, and mild antifungal activity, which may contribute to its effectiveness. An antimitotic mechanism of action is suggested by data showing that selenium sulfide decreases the rate of incorporation of radioactively labeled thymidine into the DNA of dermal epithelial cells. The following organisms are generally considered susceptible to selenium sulfide in vitro: <i>Malassezia furfur</i>, <i>Microsporum sp.</i> including <i>Microsporum audouinii</i> and <i>Microsporum canis</i>, <i>Pityrosporon sp.</i>, <i>Trichophyton sp.</i> including <i>Trichophyton schoenleinii</i> and <i>Trichophyton tonsurans</i>. Selenium sulfide has been shown to be sporicidal to <i>T. tonsurans</i>, the most common etiologic agent of tinea capitis. One in-vitro study demonstrated that 2.5% selenium sulfide was equivalent in sporicidal activity to both 1% and 2% zinc pyrithione. |
| Pharmacodynamics | Selenium sulfide is an antifungal agent often used in shampoos for the treatment of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Selenium sulfide is highly active in inhibiting the growth of <i>P. ovale</i>. It is also a proven cytostatic agent, slowing the growth of both hyperproliferative and normal cells in dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. A 0.6% micronized form of selenium sulfide is also safe and effective for dandruff. |
ADME / PK
| Absorption | There is no substantial absorption through intact skin. Absorption has been reported in patients with open lesions on the scalp or in patients using a 1% cream on the back - a patient with scalp lesions that used selenium shampoos had a level of selenium sulfide as high as 32 μg/ml in her urine. |
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Formulation & handling
- Topical-only inorganic solid typically formulated as suspensions or dispersions due to poor aqueous solubility, requiring surfactants and particle-size control for uniformity.
- Suspension-based shampoos and lotions may need rheology modifiers to prevent settling and ensure even delivery during use.
- Material can discolor and may be sensitive to oxidation or pH shifts, so formulations generally use stabilizing excipients and protected packaging.
Regulatory status
| Lifecycle | Patent‑expiry information was not provided, so only a location‑based assessment can be offered. With products marketed in the US and Canada, the API is positioned in two mature, highly regulated markets, suggesting a late‑stage or post‑patent‑expiry lifecycle unless protected by additional exclusivities. |
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| Markets | US, Canada |
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Supply Chain
| Supply chain summary | The supply landscape for selenium sulfide includes an originator group with multiple established pharmaceutical manufacturers, supported by a broad network of U.S. and Canadian packagers. Branded products appear primarily in North American markets, with no clear indicators of wider EU commercialization. Patent expiry for this mature active ingredient suggests that generic competition is already well established. |
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Safety
| Toxicity | No documented reports of serious toxicity in humans resulting from acute ingestion of selenium sulfide, however, acute toxicity studies in animals suggest that ingestion of large amounts could result in potential human toxicity. |
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- Acute toxicity studies in animals indicate systemic toxicity at high oral doses
- While serious human cases are undocumented, large‑quantity ingestion is considered a potential hazard
- Selenium sulfide can cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory pathways upon direct contact or aerosolization
Selenium Sulfide is a type of Antimycotics
Antimycotics, a subcategory of pharmaceutical Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), are essential in the treatment of various fungal infections. These powerful medications target and eliminate harmful fungi that can cause infections in humans.
Antimycotics are classified into two main types: systemic and topical. Systemic antimycotics are administered orally or intravenously and work by circulating throughout the body, treating systemic fungal infections that affect internal organs or spread throughout the bloodstream. On the other hand, topical antimycotics are applied externally to treat localized fungal infections such as athlete's foot or yeast infections.
The efficacy of antimycotics lies in their ability to disrupt fungal cell membranes, inhibit the synthesis of fungal DNA or proteins, or interfere with essential metabolic processes specific to fungi. This targeted action minimizes damage to human cells, making these medications relatively safe for patients.
Commonly prescribed antimycotics include azoles, polyenes, allylamines, and echinocandins. Azoles inhibit the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes, while polyenes bind to ergosterol, resulting in the formation of pores that lead to cell death. Allylamines disrupt the synthesis of ergosterol and inhibit the activity of squalene epoxidase, an enzyme involved in ergosterol production. Echinocandins target the synthesis of β-(1,3)-D-glucan, an essential component of the fungal cell wall.
Antimycotics play a crucial role in the management of fungal infections, offering relief to patients and aiding in their recovery. As with any medication, it is important to follow healthcare professionals' guidance regarding dosage, duration of treatment, and potential side effects to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Selenium Sulfide (Antimycotics), classified under Antifungals
Antifungals are a vital category of pharmaceutical active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) designed to combat fungal infections. These medications are developed to target and eliminate fungi, including yeasts and molds, which can cause a range of diseases in humans and animals.
Antifungals work by interfering with specific components or processes essential for fungal growth and reproduction. They may inhibit the synthesis of fungal cell walls or disrupt the production of ergosterol, a crucial component of fungal cell membranes. By targeting these key mechanisms, antifungal APIs effectively hinder the growth and spread of fungal infections.
The diversity within the antifungal category is reflected in the various classes of antifungal APIs available. Azoles, polyenes, echinocandins, and allylamines are common classes of antifungals. Each class exhibits unique mechanisms of action and targets specific types of fungi. This diversity enables healthcare professionals to tailor treatment plans to the specific fungal infection, optimizing therapeutic outcomes.
Antifungal APIs find application in various pharmaceutical formulations, including oral medications, topical creams, ointments, and intravenous solutions. They are crucial for the treatment of common fungal infections like athlete's foot, ringworm, vaginal yeast infections, and oral thrush. Additionally, antifungals play a crucial role in managing serious systemic fungal infections that can pose significant health risks, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Overall, antifungal APIs are indispensable tools in the fight against fungal infections, offering effective treatment options and improving the quality of life for patients suffering from these conditions. With ongoing research and development, the antifungal category continues to evolve, providing innovative solutions to combat the ever-changing landscape of fungal pathogens.
Selenium Sulfide API manufacturers & distributors
Compare qualified Selenium Sulfide API suppliers worldwide. We currently have 2 companies offering Selenium Sulfide API, with manufacturing taking place in 2 different countries. Use the table below to review supplier type, countries of origin, certifications, product portfolio and GMP audit availability.
| Supplier | Type | Country | Product origin | Certifications | Portfolio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LGM Pharma | Distributor | United States | World | BSE/TSE, CEP, CoA, GMP, MSDS, USDMF | 441 products |
| Omkar Speciality Chemical... | Producer | India | India | CoA, USDMF | 1 products |
When sending a request, specify which Selenium Sulfide API quality you need: for example EP (Ph. Eur.), USP, JP, BP, or another pharmacopoeial standard, as well as the required grade (base, salt, micronised, specific purity, etc.).
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