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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Fluocortolone

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Fluocortolone

  • Apply as directed by your doctor, usually not more than twice daily.
  • Spread thinly, using the specified number of fingertip units.
  • Fluocortolone should not be used on broken or infected skin.

About fluocortolone

Type of medicineTopical corticosteroid
Used forEczema
Psoriasis
Also calledUltralanum® Plain
Available asCream and ointment

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

Before using fluocortolone

Before using fluocortolone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have areas of infected skin.
  • If you suffer from acne rosacea.
  • If you suffer from perioral dermatitis (skin rash around the mouth).
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use fluocortolone

  • Carefully follow the instructions given to you by your doctor. Your doctor will tell you how long to use your preparation for. It is not usually used more than twice daily.
  • Apply 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.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Do not cover the area treated unless directed to by your doctor.
  • If you are 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.

Can fluocortolone 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.

Possible side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Spread and worsening of untreated infectionContact your doctor
Burning sensation and itchingSpeak to your doctor if this persists

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

How to store fluocortolone

  • 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


  • If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
9053		DocRef:
dils3943		Last Reviewed:
27 Oct 2008		Version:
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