What is Fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin topical?
Fluocinolone reduces swelling or inflammation. Hydroquinone can be used to bleach the skin. Tretinoin helps to rejuvenate the skin more quickly. Combination medicine that contains hydroquinone and tretinoin (for topical use) to treat melasma on the face. This medication guide does not list all possible uses for fluocinolone topical, hydroquinone, or tretinoin.
Side effects of fluocinolone, hydroquinone and tretinoin topical
If you experience any of the following: hives; severe itching; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face, lips, or throat;
If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, or tretinoin and contact your doctor immediately.
- Darkening of the treated skin.
- Itching of the eyes, nose, or mouth
- Severe skin redness or itchiness, blistering, or crusting
- Severe burning or swelling on the skin
- Possible signs of fluocinolone absorption through the skin include worsening fatigue or muscle weakness, loss of appetite, diarrhea, weight gain (especially on your face, upper back, and torso), slow wound healing, thin skin, increased hair, changes in sexual function, and depression and anxiety.
Side effects that may occur from topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin include:
- Acne;
- Mild redness, burning, or itching of the skin
There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; to report adverse events contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Tri-Luma
Warnings
Avoid tanning beds or exposure to the sun. When you're outdoors, wear protective clothing and use sunblock with SPF 30 or higher.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to hydroquinone or fluocinolone, then it is best not to use topical fluocinolone.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that this medication is safe for you:
- Asthma;
- A sulfite allergy.
Fluocinolone topical, hydroquinone, and tretinoin during pregnancy can harm an unborn child. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking this medication, tell your doctor. It is well known that the pill form of tretinoin can cause birth defects. Even though your skin absorbs less tretinoin than if taken orally, it is best to avoid using topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin if pregnant. Speak to your doctor before using any topical tretinoin, hydroquinone, or fluocinolone. The use of hormonal contraception can worsen melasma. Ask your doctor if you can use non-hormonal birth control instead (condoms, diaphragms with spermicide). There is no way to know if topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, or tretinoin could cause harm to a nursing infant. You should tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding a child. Underage usage of this medicine is not advised.
How to take Fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin topical?
Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed.Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or take it longer than stated. Do not swallow. Topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin are only for skin use. Rinse your mouth and eyes with water if this medication gets into them. Topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin are typically applied once daily, 30 minutes or more before bedtime. Please follow your doctor's directions. Before applying the medicine, gently wash your face using a mild cleanser. Rinse the skin and pat it dry. Only apply a thin layer of medicine to the skin affected by melasma and the skin surrounding it. Avoid getting medicine on your lips and in the creases around your nose. Bandaging the treated skin is not recommended. The bandaging may increase the amount of drug absorbed by your skin and cause adverse effects.
After applying the medication, wash your hands. Topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin are only for short-term usage until you achieve the desired result. To prevent further discoloration of the skin, this medicine should not be used regularly. It is not possible to speed up the effects of this medication by using it in higher amounts or more frequently than recommended. Side effects may also increase. The use of topical fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin should be part of an overall skin care regimen that includes wearing protective clothing, avoiding the sun, and using a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. This medication should never be shared with another individual even if their symptoms match those of yours.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for melasma:
Apply a thin coat to the affected areas at least 30 minutes prior to bedtime.
Comments:
Before applying this medication, the affected area(s) should be cleaned with a mild cleaner and allowed to dry.
Patients should apply the cream evenly and lightly to the surrounding skin, extending it up to about 1/2 inch.
Once control has been achieved, treatment should cease.
Use: For short-term treatment of moderate to severe melasma on the face in conjunction with sun avoidance measures.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You can either apply the medication as soon as possible or wait until you remember. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
A topical overdose of tretinoin, hydroquinone, or fluocinolone is unlikely to be harmful. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, call 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care.
What should be avoided?
Avoid tanning beds or exposure to the sun. Topical fluocinolone and hydroquinone can cause you to sunburn. When you're outdoors, wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). You may have more sensitive skin to extreme weather conditions such as wind and cold. Use clothing to protect your skin and moisturizers or lotions as necessary. Avoid skin products that can cause irritation. These include harsh soaps, skin cleansers or shampoos, permanent hair dyes or chemicals, hair removal or waxes, and skin products containing alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Use only medicated products that your doctor has prescribed.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you may take orally or even inject are unlikely to have any effect on fluocinolone, hydroquinone, or tretinoin applied topically. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you take, including vitamins and herbal remedies.
