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Letters to the Editor
Another Treatment Option
The May 2003 issue had an excellent page (page 57) devoted to postherpetic neuralgia. The treatment of choice should be added: Doxepin Cream 5% (Prudoxin, Zonalon). I’ve used this to help dozens of patients. It’s very safe, usually devoid of any untoward effects, and is the most effective therapy by far. It can be used during acute zoster or at any time after. It can be combined with other pain-relieving therapies if needed. Somnolence can occur, but is not common. Allergic contact dermatitis will sometimes occur with prolonged use. Typically, people will relieve zoster pain by using the cream three to five times per day and gradually reducing the frequency. Most people prefer it to narcotics.
— J. Lawrence Dohan, M.D.
Hudson, MA
Antifungal Shampoos
In <I>Skin & Aging</I> May 2003 on page 82 of the New Products section, the statement “Ciclopirox 1% (Loprox) is the first and only prescription antifungal shampoo approved in the United States” is incorrect. Ketoconazole (Nizoral 2%) shampoo has been on the market for years, and in fact is now available over-the-counter in a 1% shampoo.
— Donald G. W. Brooking, M.D.
Dallas, TX
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