What is Fluocinolone Topical?
Fluocinolone, a powerful corticosteroid, prevents substances from being released in the body that cause inflammation. The prescription drug fluocinolone topical (for skin) is used to treat skin conditions that are responsive to steroids. Topical fluocinolone is available as a cream or gel, an ointment or oil, and a solution.
Warnings
Use fluocinolone only to treat diaper rash. Fluocinolone should not be used on cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. In some cases, fluocinolone can affect the growth of children or teens. You may need to check their growth regularly. Speak to your doctor.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to fluocinolone, then it is best not to use the topical.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that fluocinolone will be safe for you:
- Any type of skin infection
- A skin reaction to steroid medicines;
- Liver disease
- An adrenal gland disorder is a condition that affects the adrenal gland.
Steroids can cause glucose (sugar) to increase in the blood or urine. Inform your doctor if diabetes is present. Fluocinolone topical is not known to harm an unborn child.Notify your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or considering becoming pregnant. Breastfeeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks. Avoid areas where the mouth of your baby may be in contact with fluocinolone if you apply it to your chest. Children should only take this medicine with prior consultation from their physician.This medicine can be absorbed more easily by children through their skin, and they may experience side effects.
How to take Fluocinolone Topical?
Read and follow all instructions or guides included with your medication, including following all label directions. Topical treatments must only be applied topically. Please read and follow all instructions included with your medication, even if they seem unclear to you. If that is the case, consult your physician or pharmacist immediately for clarification. Fluocinolone should only be used to treat skin conditions. Apply a thin layer of medication directly onto the affected area. Do not apply over an expanse unless directed by your doctor. Cover the area being treated only if instructed to by your physician, since covering can increase how much medicine penetrates into your skin and lead to adverse side effects. When treating the diaper area, only use loose-fitting or plastic diapers. Be sure to thoroughly mix Fluocinolone shampoo before each use. Apply it directly onto your scalp, lather it up, and rinse after five minutes for optimal results. If your symptoms do not improve in two weeks, seek medical assistance immediately. Do not abruptly discontinue taking Fluocinolone; rather, seek medical advice regarding decreasing your dosage gradually. Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature and in an area free of moisture or heat.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is nearing time for you to take another dose, skip any missed ones altogether and wait. Never administer two doses simultaneously.
What happens if I overdose?
Immediately contact Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 in case someone takes by accident their medication. If necessary, seek emergency medical help or call Poison Help immediately at 800-222-1222. Fluocinolone can cause thinning of the skin, easy bleeding, changes in body weight (especially on your neck, face, back, and waist), an increase in acne, facial hair or menstrual issues, impotence, or loss of interest.
What should be avoided?
Do not apply fluocinolone to the face, underarms, or groin. Fluocinolone is not recommended for treating skin conditions that have not been examined by your doctor.
Side effects of Fluocinolone Topical
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy to fluocinolone, seek immediate medical attention: itching; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face, lips, or throat; or hives.
If you experience:
- Skin conditions are worsening;
- Redness, heat, swelling, oozing, or severe irritation on any skin treated;
- High blood sugar symptoms include increased thirst, increased urination, and a fruity breath smell.
- Possible signs that you have absorbed this medication through your skin include: weight gain (especially on your face, upper back, and torso), slow healing of wounds, discolored or thinning skin, increased hair growth, muscle weakness, vomiting, or diarrhea. Other symptoms may include fatigue, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, or sexual changes.
Fluocinolone can cause a variety of side effects.
- Burning, itching or irritation of treated skin
- Increased hair growth
- White or "pruned", appearance of the skin
- Rash, pimples;
- Changes in the color of treated skin
There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding any side effects, call your physician immediately. Alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report them.
Interaction with other drug
Any medications taken won't interfere with the cream applied directly to your skin.Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including vitamins and herbal remedies.
