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Cor-Tar-Quin

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Cor-Tar-Quin

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cor-Tar-Quin

Property Description
Active Ingredients Hydrocortisone, Coal tar solution, Diiodohydroxyquinoline
Form Topical preparation (Cream or Ointment)
Pharmacological Class Combination Dermatological Agent
General Purpose Provides anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and mild antiseptic support
Route of Administration Topical

What Type of Medicine is Cor-Tar-Quin?

Cor-Tar-Quin is a specific combination topical pharmaceutical preparation historically designated as a Combination Dermatological Agent. This formulation is a multicomponent entity—not a single-drug product—designed for topical administration to the skin. The core classification is established by its principal ingredient, Hydrocortisone, which belongs to the class of glucocorticoids or corticosteroids. This class is widely and clinically recognized for its ability to reduce inflammation. This specialized combination formulation provides an integrated therapeutic approach compared to single-agent treatments, making it suited for managing persistent or complicated dermatological issues.

What is the Composition and Origin of Cor-Tar-Quin?

The preparation contains a triad of distinct active chemical substances: Hydrocortisone (the International Nonproprietary Name, or INN), Coal tar solution (Liquor Carbonis Detergens), and Diiodohydroxyquinoline (also known as Iodoquinol). The product is typically formulated as a topical preparation, such as a cream or ointment. Its active compounds have varied origins: Hydrocortisone is a synthesized derivative, while Coal tar is a naturally derived substance, ensuring a broad-spectrum therapeutic action within the single medium.

What General Purpose Does Cor-Tar-Quin Serve?

The general purpose of Cor-Tar-Quin is to provide multifaceted relief from persistent skin discomfort, addressing both inflammation and potential microbial issues concurrently. The formulation combines the powerful anti-inflammatory action provided by the glucocorticoid with a regulating and anti-itch (antipruritic) effect from the Coal tar solution. The use of coal tar is recognized for its role in reducing the excessive scaling and associated irritation of the skin. The integrated action of these three components serves to stabilize the skin barrier and alleviate severe pruritus associated with complex inflammatory skin conditions.

What side effects are possible with Cor-Tar-Quin?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The use of this medication, which contains a corticosteroid (hydrocortisone) and an antifungal/antibacterial agent (diiodohydroxyquin or iodoquinol), is associated with a risk of both local skin reactions and systemic effects due to absorption of the steroid component.

Type of Adverse Reaction Examples (Reported Infrequently)
Local Dermatologic Reactions Burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation (lightening of skin color), perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, skin thinning (atrophy), and stretch marks (striae).
Systemic Effects (Rare, usually with extensive use) Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

Safety Considerations and Limitations

  • Contraindications: This product should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any of its components. Its use is generally contraindicated in the presence of certain skin infections, such as tuberculosis, viral diseases (e.g., herpes simplex, varicella), and fungal infections, unless the medication is specifically targeting the infection.
  • Pediatric Safety: Children and infants may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity, including HPA axis suppression, due to a larger skin surface area-to-body weight ratio. Care must be taken to minimize exposure in this population.
  • High-Risk Exposure: The risk of systemic effects is increased if the medication is applied to large surface areas, used for prolonged periods, or applied under occlusive dressings or tight clothing (such as diapers).
  • Monitoring: The iodoquinol component may be absorbed and interfere with certain thyroid function tests. Discontinuation is required if irritation or signs of hypersensitivity develop.

All patients should report any persistent or worsening adverse reactions to a healthcare professional.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory overdose profile for this combination topical preparation is defined by the systemic risks associated with excessive absorption of the Hydrocortisone component, typically resulting from prolonged use over large surface areas or under occlusion (chronic overdose).

Documented Systemic Manifestations

Systemic absorption of the corticosteroid can produce reversible Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and clinical manifestations resembling Cushing's syndrome. Other documented findings include Hyperglycemia and Glucosuria. Pediatric patients are noted in regulatory documents as being at greater risk for systemic toxicity, which can manifest as linear growth retardation or, in severe cases, intracranial hypertension.

Required Emergency Actions

When signs of systemic toxicity are observed, regulatory guidance mandates that patients seek immediate medical attention for evaluation and management. If HPA axis suppression is documented, supportive measures include the gradual withdrawal of the product or the substitution with a less potent steroid. In cases where glucocorticosteroid insufficiency (steroid withdrawal) symptoms occur, the administration of supplemental systemic corticosteroids may be required. There is no specific antidote known for the systemic toxicity resulting from topically applied corticosteroids. Patients using large doses should be periodically evaluated for evidence of HPA axis suppression.

Therapeutic Uses of Cor-Tar-Quin

What Cor-Tar-Quin Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Cor-Tar-Quin is commonly used to help with symptomatic support for chronic inflammatory skin disorders, applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. Corticosteroids like hydrocortisone are applied to help ease the redness, swelling, and discomfort of various skin conditions, aligning with the primary symptomatic axis of this preparation.

The medication is primarily relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, such as recurrent or long-standing eczema, certain types of psoriasis, and forms of dermatitis like atopic and seborrheic. It is applied to address pronounced symptoms of redness (erythema), swelling, and symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states that create noticeable interference with daily stability. It is also considered relevant in situations where the skin disorder is complicated by or highly susceptible to conditions associated with heightened risk of microbial involvement.

“The combination of anti-inflammatory relief and supportive antimicrobial effect may assist with managing complex skin discomfort.”

The formulation provides support that helps ease the overall symptom load, contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms, and assists with maintaining functional stability in the affected skin area.

Quick Fact: Relief for Persistent Itching

The medication is commonly used to help with managing pruritus (itching) that interferes with daily functioning and the associated scaling or flaking common in chronic skin conditions. This supportive benefit helps in managing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Hydrocortisone Topical

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Cor-Tar-Quin?

Eligibility for Cor-Tar-Quin (a combination topical medication containing hydrocortisone, coal tar, and diiodohydroxyquinoline) is strictly determined by official regulatory labeling, focusing on specific health conditions, age, and hypersensitivity status.

Contraindicated Populations

Use of Cor-Tar-Quin is strictly contraindicated for individuals with a known history of hypersensitivity (allergy) to hydrocortisone, diiodohydroxyquinoline (iodoquinol), or any other component of the formulation. The medication must also not be used on skin areas affected by active viral infections (such as herpes simplex or chickenpox), tuberculosis of the skin, or syphilitic skin infections.

Age and Physiological Restrictions

Population Group Eligibility Status (Regulatory Labeling)
Pediatric Patients (< 12 years) Use not established. Safety and effectiveness have not been confirmed for this age group.
Adults and Adolescents (≥ 12 years) The primary population for whom use is documented.
Pregnancy Conditional Use (Category C). Should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.
Nursing Mothers Caution must be exercised; it is not known whether the drug is excreted in human milk.

Condition-Based Limitations

Patients with factors predisposing them to systemic absorption (e.g., severe hepatic insufficiency or application over extensive areas) require careful consideration. Furthermore, the Iodoquinol component may interfere with thyroid function tests; regulatory documents state that testing should be deferred for at least one month after discontinuing therapy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The regulatory profile for this multi-component topical preparation is defined by specific restrictions and considerations related to the potential systemic effects of its active ingredients.

Interaction Classifications

The most restrictive classification is a Contraindicated Combination involving the Hydrocortisone component. Co-administration of live or live, attenuated vaccines is formally prohibited when the corticosteroid is used at immunosuppressive doses. This mandatory restriction addresses the potential risk of disseminated infection due to drug-induced immune suppression.

A Pharmacodynamic Interaction is documented with certain classes of medicinal products, including thiazides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, and sulfonamides. These substances are known to be photosensitisers and carry a risk of augmented photosensitivity when used concurrently with the Coal Tar component. This additive effect is a primary caution in co-administration.

Population-Specific Considerations

Official regulatory documents note that the systemic effect of the corticosteroid component may be enhanced in patient populations with Hypothyroidism or Cirrhosis (Hepatic Impairment). This is a known consequence of altered drug disposition in these specific conditions. Furthermore, patients with pre-existing Kidney disease, Liver disease, or Thyroid disease are noted to have a heightened susceptibility to potential adverse effects from systemically absorbed Diiodohydroxyquinoline.

No specific pharmacokinetic (CYP-mediated) or transporter-mediated drug-drug interactions, nor any interactions with food, alcohol, or herbal products, are formally documented in the regulatory summaries for this topical formulation.

Mechanism of Action

Cor-Tar-Quin is a combination dermatological agent whose mechanism involves two distinct compounds: hydrocortisone and quinacrine. Hydrocortisone, a glucocorticoid, functions as an agonist at the intracellular glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Upon binding, the activated receptor-ligand complex translocates to the nucleus, where it modulates gene transcription. This genomic action results in the increased synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins, such as annexin A1, and the suppression of pro-inflammatory transcription factors, including NF-kappaB and AP-1. This signaling modification leads to the downstream inhibition of phospholipase A2 (PLA2), thus limiting the release of arachidonic acid and the subsequent production of eicosanoids (prostaglandins and leukotrienes), resulting in modulation of the local inflammatory cascade.

The second component, quinacrine, an acridine derivative, possesses a multi-targeted mechanism. It acts as an inhibitor of the enzyme phospholipase A2 (both cytosolic and calcium-independent isoforms), directly contributing to the same molecular endpoint as hydrocortisone—a reduction in eicosanoid synthesis. Additionally, quinacrine, an amphiphilic weak base, accumulates in and alkalinizes intracellular acidic compartments such as endosomes and lysosomes. This pH elevation disrupts the function of acidic hydrolases and interferes with antigen processing and presentation by antigen-presenting cells (APCs), leading to the dampening of specific immune signaling. Together, the two agents provide distinct, yet functionally convergent, means to modulate cellular inflammatory signaling and decrease the local inflammatory and immune response in the targeted epithelial tissue.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Cor-Tar-Quin

This section describes the official, label-based administration principles for Cor-Tar-Quin (Hydrocortisone, Coal tar solution, Diiodohydroxyquinoline topical combination), defining how the preparation is used in clinical practice.

Official Administration Guidelines

Usage Parameter Regulatory Instruction
Route and Form Strictly Topical application (cream or lotion) for External Use Only.
Dosing Quantity Applied as a thin film covering the affected skin area.
Frequency Application is limited to two to four times daily (2 to 4 times a day), as defined by official labeling for its core ingredients.
Duration Principle Intended for short-term use and should be limited to the shortest duration compatible with an effective regimen, consistent with the guidance for topical corticosteroids.

Administration Requirements and Restrictions

The preparation must be used with specific procedural constraints.

Restriction Type Instruction
Occlusion The treated skin area must not be covered or bandaged with an occlusive dressing unless a physician provides explicit direction.
Application Site Contact with the eyes and mucous membranes must be avoided. The preparation is not for ophthalmic use.
Pediatric Use Safety and efficacy have not been established for use in pediatric patients under the age of 12 for the related topical combination.

The official instructions collectively define the administration as a non-occlusive procedure with strict limits on frequency and duration. This structures a standardized protocol for applying the medication.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence Overview for Cor-Tar-Quin

Evidence Overview for Chronic Inflammatory Skin Conditions

This section summarizes the types of studies that exist for managing eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, focusing on research that explored how symptoms change when the individual components, like Coal tar and Hydrocortisone, are used to manage symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, and scaling.

Cor-Tar-Quin is a combination product, and research exploring its structure of evidence has mainly focused on the established actions of its key ingredients. Researchers have examined the action of the Hydrocortisone component, which belongs to the corticosteroid class, in studies focusing on episodes where symptoms become more noticeable. The findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states. The evidence level is characterized as Moderate, based on the existing literature describing the individual components.

Research Focus on Skin Conditions Susceptible to Microbial Involvement

This part describes the rationale for combining the anti-inflammatory agents with an agent designed to offer properties observed in research settings to be associated with antimicrobial effects. The formulation includes Diiodohydroxyquinoline, an agent associated with antimicrobial effects when managing complex inflammatory skin conditions where there may be a risk of microbial involvement. The studies primarily describe the intended therapeutic rationale, but comparative evidence remains limited regarding the full contribution of the third agent in this specific combination.

Long-Term Studies and Follow-up Durations

Research on Cor-Tar-Quin and similar combination topicals typically involves studies exploring short-term symptom changes. The follow-up durations were limited in the research examining symptom intensity or variability. As a result, long-term effects are not fully established for the specific combination. Data show patterns related to how symptoms evolved over defined, shorter time intervals, but there is limited information for long-term outcomes.

What Is Still Being Studied or Remains Uncertain About Cor-Tar-Quin

One of the primary research limitations is that the most extensive evidence stems from the actions of the individual active components (Hydrocortisone and Coal tar). The specific contribution of the three-component combination (Cor-Tar-Quin) is an area where evidence is limited, particularly from dedicated, large-scale, long-term studies. Therefore, uncertainty remains regarding how the combination product performs over extended follow-up durations and in populations with very specific or complicated health profiles.

Key Studies & References Hydrocortisone Topical

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cor-Tar-Quin (FAQ)

Q: Can Cor-Tar-Quin be used long-term?

Official regulatory documents indicate that Cor-Tar-Quin is intended only for short-term use. Prolonged use is associated with a potential for increased systemic absorption of the corticosteroid component, which may result in systemic effects. Using the product for longer than directed may also lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms on the skin.

Q: What is the risk of skin thinning with Cor-Tar-Quin?

Skin thinning, or atrophy, is a local adverse reaction that has been reported with the use of topical corticosteroids like those in this product. This effect is described as infrequent but may occur, particularly if the treated area is covered with an occlusive dressing or tight clothing. If this or any other local adverse reaction develops, reporting to a healthcare professional is indicated.

Q: Can Cor-Tar-Quin be used on the face?

Regulatory information specifies that Cor-Tar-Quin is for external use only, and contact with the eyes, lips, and other mucous membranes must be avoided. The risk of certain local side effects, such as skin thinning, may also be higher when potent topicals are used on the face. If use on the face is considered, it should be discussed with a healthcare professional due to the potential for increased risk of side effects in this area.

Q: Is it normal to feel a slight stinging when using Cor-Tar-Quin?

Local reactions like burning, itching, and irritation are among the adverse reactions reported with this product’s use. Official information describes these as possible local adverse reactions, which means they are not typical expected sensations. If irritation develops or persists, the use of the product should be discontinued.

Q: Why is Cor-Tar-Quin available only by prescription?

Cor-Tar-Quin is classified as a Human Prescription Drug due to its formulation as a combination product containing a potent corticosteroid component. Professional medical guidance is required for its use to properly monitor for potential local or systemic adverse effects that can occur with steroid absorption.

Q: Does Cor-Tar-Quin cause sun sensitivity?

Regulatory information indicates that the Coal Tar component of this preparation is a known photosensitizer. This means that skin treated with this product may be more susceptible to injury, such as a severe sunburn reaction, from exposure to sunlight or other UV light.

Q: What is still being studied or remains uncertain about Cor-Tar-Quin?

Research evidence for Cor-Tar-Quin primarily stems from studies focused on its individual active components, rather than the three-component combination specifically. Uncertainty therefore remains regarding how this full combination product performs over extended follow-up durations and in patient populations with very complex or specific health profiles.

Q: What does the package insert say about using Cor-Tar-Quin with alcohol?

According to the official product information, no specific interactions with alcohol have been formally documented in the regulatory summaries for this topical formulation.

Q: What are the general expectations for results when using Cor-Tar-Quin?

Studies have examined how symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, and scaling change over defined, shorter time intervals during the use of the product's components. Studies have observed symptom improvement over defined, shorter time intervals (e.g., within a few weeks). If symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, a healthcare provider should be consulted for reassessment.

Q: What happens if I forget to use Cor-Tar-Quin?

Official labeling advises that if a dose is missed, it should be applied as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next application, the missed dose should be skipped. The patient information advises against applying extra medicine to make up for a missed application, as this could increase the risk of side effects.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that interact with Cor-Tar-Quin?

Based on the regulatory summaries for this topical formulation, no specific interactions with food or herbal products are formally documented.

Q: Is Cor-Tar-Quin the same type of medicine as Hydrocortisone?

Cor-Tar-Quin is a combination topical pharmaceutical preparation, which means it contains multiple active ingredients. Hydrocortisone is only one of the three active ingredients in Cor-Tar-Quin, along with Coal tar and Diiodohydroxyquinoline.

Q: Can I use Cor-Tar-Quin if I have a wound or broken skin?

Official information advises against applying the product to skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, burns, or large sores. Applying it to broken or severely injured skin may increase the chance of the active ingredients being absorbed into the body, which raises the risk of systemic side effects.

Q: Are there generic versions of Cor-Tar-Quin available?

While the specific branded product may not have direct generic equivalents, combination products containing its active ingredients, Hydrocortisone and Iodoquinol (Diiodohydroxyquinoline), are available. These alternatives are recognized in the regulatory product information.

Q: Does using Cor-Tar-Quin affect lab test results?

Official product information notes that the Iodoquinol component can be absorbed through the skin and may interfere with the results of certain thyroid function tests (TFTs). If these tests are necessary, regulatory documents advise that testing should be deferred for at least one month after discontinuing therapy.

Q: What should I do if Cor-Tar-Quin gets into my eyes?

This medication is not intended for ophthalmic use, and contact with the eyes should be avoided. If the product does happen to get into the eyes, official instructions recommend that they should be rinsed off immediately and thoroughly with water.

Q: Can I use other skin creams or makeup while using Cor-Tar-Quin?

Official product information advises not using cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas, including makeup. The application of additional products on the treated area is generally advised against unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.

Q: Does Cor-Tar-Quin affect the immune system in a localized area?

The Hydrocortisone component of the product is a glucocorticoid that works by modulating the gene transcription of inflammatory proteins. This action is described as modulating the inflammatory and immune response in the targeted skin tissue, which is consistent with its intended anti-inflammatory effect.

Q: What happens if I use Cor-Tar-Quin more often than intended?

Applying the medicine more often or for a longer period than instructed may cause unwanted local side effects, such as skin irritation. Exceeding the recommended frequency or duration is associated with an increased potential for systemic absorption of the corticosteroid component into the body.

Q: Is Cor-Tar-Quin described as an immunosuppressant?

Regulatory documents include a restriction against using certain vaccines when the corticosteroid is applied at doses considered immunosuppressive, acknowledging the potential for the drug to cause immune suppression.

Q: What research themes are commonly explored in studies about Cor-Tar-Quin?

Research themes commonly explored for this type of combination product include the management of chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Studies also address the rationale for combining an anti-inflammatory agent with one having antimicrobial properties, focusing on observed short-term symptom changes.

How should Cor-Tar-Quin be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Cor-Tar-Quin (Hydrocortisone/Iodoquinol)

The storage and disposal of this topical medicine are governed by specific regulatory requirements to ensure product quality and safety.

Storage and Handling Requirement Official Condition
Temperature Range Store at Controlled Room Temperature: 20^circC to 25^circC (68^circF to 77^circF).
Environmental Protection Must be protected from freezing and excessive heat.
Container Rule Keep the container tightly closed to maintain integrity.
Child Safety Store the product out of the reach of children.

For disposal of unused or expired product, the official protocol recommends using a federal drug take-back program when available. If a take-back program is not accessible, the product may be disposed of in household trash after being mixed with an undesirable substance, and all identifying information on the label must be scratched out.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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