Fluocinolone acetonide

About fluocinolone acetonide

Fluocinolone acetonide is a topical corticosteroid which works by being absorbed into the skin cells and stopping these cells from producing chemicals which cause inflammation. This reduces the symptoms of swelling, itching and redness that are associated with inflammatory skin conditions.

Fluocinolone acetonide may also be combined with an antibacterial agent (such as clioquinol or neomycin) for short-term use in infected eczema.

Before using fluocinolone acetonide

Before using fluocinolone acetonide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have any areas of infected skin.
• If you suffer from acne rosacea.
• If you suffer from perioral dermatitis (skin rash around the mouth).
• If you suffer from widespread plaque psoriasis (large areas of raised, inflamed, red lesions covered by a silvery white scale).

How to use fluocinolone acetonide

• Apply as directed by your doctor, usually not more than twice daily.
• Spread thinly, using the specified number of fingertip units.
• A fingertip unit is the amount of topical steroid that is squeezed out from a standard tube along an adults fingertip.
• If you are using fluocinolone acetonide with an antibacterial agent (Synalar® C or Synalar® N) for infected eczema, use it regularly twice daily for a week only, unless you have been directed otherwise by your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Corticosteroids should not be used on broken or infected skin including cold sores, acne rosacea, chickenpox, ringworm, thrush or athlete's foot.
• If treating eczema, the use of emollients is very important. Emollients are creams, ointments and lotions which 'oil' the skin to keep it supple and moist.
• If you are using fluocinolone acetonide with clioquinol (Synalar® C) be careful not to let the preparation come into contact with your clothing as it may stain.

Can fluocinolone acetonide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Sometimes, the absorption of potent corticosteroids (such as Synalar®) through the skin can cause adrenal suppression and Cushing's syndrome. This is generally only when treatment is carried out on a large surface area for a long time. Signs of adrenal suppression include stomach pain, weight loss, feeling or being sick, and tiredness.

In addition, you may notice changes in hair growth as a result of repeated courses of topical steroids over a long time. Stretch marks may also develop.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store fluocinolone acetonide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines