Indications
Diflorasone Diacetate is a very strong (high potency) corticosteroid that is applied to the skin. It is used for short-term relief of redness, swelling, itching and scaling in skin conditions that respond to steroids, such as eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis and psoriasis, especially thick or stubborn patches that have not improved with milder creams.
How It Works
Corticosteroids are man-made versions of hormones the body uses to control inflammation (the redness, heat and swelling the immune system causes). When rubbed into the skin, Diflorasone Diacetate calms the immune reaction in the treated area, narrows small blood vessels and reduces the release of chemicals that cause swelling, redness and itch.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: apply a thin layer of the cream or ointment (usually 0.05%) to the affected skin once or twice a day, or as prescribed, and rub in gently. Wash your hands afterwards unless the hands are the area being treated.
- Use it for the shortest time needed, usually not longer than 2 weeks without a doctor’s review.
- Do not cover the area with tight dressings or bandages unless your doctor tells you to.
- Avoid the face, groin and armpits unless specifically advised.
- Not usually recommended for children except under specialist supervision.
Interactions
Few interactions are expected with normal use on the skin. Do not use other steroid creams on the same area at the same time. Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, including other skin products, because using large amounts over big areas can add to the effects of steroid tablets, injections or inhalers.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Diflorasone Diacetate or any ingredient of the product.
- Untreated skin infections caused by bacteria, viruses (such as cold sores, chickenpox or shingles), fungi or parasites.
- Acne, rosacea or a rash around the mouth (perioral dermatitis).
- Leg ulcers, unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Side Effects
Common: burning, stinging, itching or dryness where it is applied. With long or heavy use: thinning of the skin, stretch marks, easy bruising, small visible blood vessels, changes in skin colour, acne-like spots, extra hair growth and skin infections.
If large areas are treated for a long time, enough medicine can be absorbed to affect the body’s own hormone (adrenal) system, which may raise blood sugar or cause a round face and weight gain.
Get urgent medical help if you notice signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash), or a spreading infection with fever, pus or rapidly worsening redness.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if your doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk, and then on small areas for short periods. When breastfeeding, do not apply it to the breasts or nipples, and use it only as advised by your doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
- This is a very strong steroid: do not use it more often, on larger areas or for longer than prescribed.
- Keep it away from the eyes; long use near the eyes may raise the risk of glaucoma and cataract.
- Do not stop suddenly after long use on large areas; your doctor may reduce it gradually.
- If the skin does not improve within 2 weeks, or gets worse, see your doctor.
- Children absorb more medicine through the skin and are more likely to get side effects.
Overdose
Using too much for too long can thin the skin and may affect the adrenal glands. Swallowing a small amount by accident is unlikely to cause serious harm, but contact a doctor or poison centre for advice. If signs of overuse appear, your doctor will tell you how to reduce or stop the medicine.
Therapeutic Class
Topical corticosteroid, very potent (high potency).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.