Corticosteroids topical (very potent)

About Corticosteroids Topical (Very Potent)

Topical corticosteroids are used to relieve conditions in which the skin is inflamed (swollen and irritated).

Topical corticosteroids can be divided into four degrees of strength or potency: mild, moderate, potent and very potent. This leaflet deals with the very potent group of topical corticosteroids.

Very potent topical corticosteroids are used to treat severe inflammatory skin conditions such as severe eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.

Very potent topical corticosteroids include Clobetasol propionate; Halcinonide; Diflucortolone valerate.

They are available in cream, oily cream, ointment and scalp application form.

Brands available are: Dermovate; Halciderm Topical; Nerisone Forte. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Corticosteroids Topical (Very Potent)

Before using any of this preparation make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any of the ingredients listed on the packaging of this preparation
• if you are using or taking any other preparations, including those available to purchase without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Corticosteroids Topical (Very Potent)

• Always read the instructions on the container, if possible, before using the preparation.
• Wash the affected area of skin and dry well, removing all traces of soap. Unless otherwise directed apply a thin layer of the preparation once or twice a day and massage gently into the skin until it disappears.
• Apply to the affected area as detailed on the container.
• You only need to use a small amount of this preparation. If you have been prescribed a cream or ointment, one fingertip unit (a line from the tip of an adult index finger to the first crease) is enough to cover an area twice the size of an adult hand. Never apply more than this quantity or more often than advised by your doctor or pharmacist.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If your symptoms do not begin to improve after using this preparation for 2-4 weeks or if they get worse, check with your pharmacist or doctor. Topical corticosteroids should not be used on broken or infected skin including cold sores, acne, rosacea, chickenpox, ringworm, thrush or athlete's foot.
• Do not allow this preparation to come into contact with the face or mucous membranes (e.g. mouth, vagina, inside of nose etc.), unless directed to do so by your doctor.
• If you have been told to use the preparation on your face, you should not apply it for more than five days at a time.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, if any of this preparation gets into the eyes rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Topical corticosteroids should not be used for long periods of time to treat eczema in children.
• Unless directed by your doctor, do not apply a bandage or dressing to the area being treated. This will increase absorption of the preparation and increase side effects.

Can Corticosteroids Topical (Very Potent) cause problems?

Very Potent corticosteroids can cause side effects.

If your condition gets worse or if you experience pain, pus-filled blisters, a burning sensation, changes in skin colour, unusual hair growth, thinning of the skin or unusual red marks on the skin after using the preparation contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

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

How to store Corticosteroids Topical (Very Potent)

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/02/2005