Indications
Fluocinolone acetonide cream and ointment are used on the skin to relieve redness, swelling and itching in inflammatory skin conditions that respond to steroids, such as eczema (atopic dermatitis), contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis (limited areas), lichen planus and severe insect bite reactions. It treats the inflammation but does not cure the underlying condition.
How It Works
Fluocinolone acetonide is a corticosteroid (steroid). Applied to the skin, it calms the immune and inflammatory reactions in the skin, narrows small blood vessels and reduces itching and swelling.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: apply a thin layer to the affected skin only, once or twice a day, and rub in gently. Use it for the shortest time needed, usually not more than 2 weeks at a time unless the doctor advises. Once the skin improves, use it less often or stop as advised. Creams suit moist or weeping areas; ointments suit dry, thick or scaly skin. Children: only as prescribed, for short courses. Wash your hands after use unless the hands are being treated. Do not cover with bandages or plastic unless the doctor tells you to.
Interactions
Few interactions are expected when used correctly. Avoid using other steroid creams on the same area at the same time. If used over large areas for a long time, enough may be absorbed to interact with medicines such as Ritonavir or Itraconazole, which can increase steroid effects in the body.
Contraindications
Do not use on untreated skin infections, including bacterial infections (impetigo), fungal infections (ringworm, thrush), and viral infections (cold sores, chickenpox, shingles, warts); on acne or rosacea; on a rash around the mouth (perioral dermatitis); on itching around the anus or genitals without a doctor’s advice; or in babies under 1 year. Do not use if you are allergic to fluocinolone or any ingredient.
Side Effects
Burning, stinging or dryness at first are common. Using it too long, too often or on thin skin can cause thinning of the skin, stretch marks, easy bruising, visible small blood vessels, lighter patches of skin, acne-like spots and unwanted hair growth. Heavy use over large areas, especially in children, can affect the body’s own hormone (cortisol) levels and growth.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat or difficulty breathing. See a doctor promptly if the skin becomes more red, painful, swollen or develops pus, which may mean infection.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if a doctor advises, in small amounts for short periods. While breastfeeding, it can be used on small areas on medical advice, but do not apply it to the breasts or nipples.
Precautions and Warnings
This is a strong steroid. Do not use on the face, armpits, groin or skin folds unless a doctor tells you to, and keep it away from the eyes, as it can cause glaucoma or cataract. Do not use it for longer than prescribed or stop suddenly after long use on psoriasis, as the rash can flare. Do not use it as a beauty or skin-whitening cream. Tell your doctor if the condition does not improve in 1 to 2 weeks.
Overdose
Using a lot for a long time can lead to skin thinning and, rarely, steroid effects in the body. Reduce use under medical advice rather than stopping suddenly. If swallowed, especially by a child, seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Topical corticosteroid (potent).
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.