Zinc pyrithione is the zinc complex of 1-hydroxy-2(1H)-pyridinethione, or more commonly, pyrithione. Pyrithione was first听听by E. Shaw and co-workers in 1950. The preparation of the zinc derivative was disclosed by Olin Mathieson in a 1956 British patent, but the compound has been used since the 1930s.
Zinc pyrithione was originally used as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. It is still used as an antifungal, primarily as a treatment for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Its current antibacterial uses are treating听Streptococcus听补苍诲听Staphylococcus听infections and psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, and athlete鈥檚 foot. Its primary nonmedical use is as a component in exterior paints to protect against mildew and algae.
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