This medication is used to treat a variety of skin
conditions (such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, allergies, rash).
Fluocinonide reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that can occur in
these types of conditions. This medication is a strong
corticosteroid.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using fluocinonide and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is for use on the skin only. Do not use
it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your
doctor.
Wash and dry your hands before applying the medication,
then clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of the medication
to the affected area and gently rub in as directed by your doctor, usually
1 to 4 times daily depending on your brand. Follow your doctor's
instructions carefully. Do not cover, bandage, or wrap the area unless
directed to do so by your doctor.
After applying the medication, wash your hands unless
you are using this medication to treat the hands. If applying this
medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes as this may worsen
or cause glaucoma. Also avoid getting this medication in the nose or mouth.
If you get the medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of
water.
Use this medication only for the condition prescribed.
Do not use it for longer than 2 weeks in a row or use more than 60 grams
per week unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse
after 2 weeks of treatment.
Burning, stinging, itching, dryness, or redness may
occur when this medication is first applied to the skin. This should
disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of
these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- stretch marks
- skin thinning/discoloration
- acne
- extreme/unwanted hair growth
- small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)
Skin infections can become worse when this medication is
used. Tell your doctor if redness, swelling, or irritation do not get
better.
Rarely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed
from the skin into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too
much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children, and in
people who use this medication for a long time or over large areas of the
skin. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects
occur:
- unusual/extreme tiredness
- weight loss
- headache
- swelling ankles/feet
- increased thirst/urination
- vision problems
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using fluocinonide, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as
hydrocortisone, prednisone); or if you have any other allergies. This
product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- poor blood circulation
- immune system problems
Do not use if there is an infection or sore present in
the area to be treated.
Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time
or over large areas of skin can make it more difficult for your body to
respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment,
or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that
you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past
few months.
Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily
slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor
regularly so your child's height can be checked.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when
applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken
by mouth. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless your
doctor tells you to.
Lab tests (such as adrenal gland function) should be
done while you are using this medication, especially if you use this
medication for an extended period of time or apply it over large areas of
the body. Consult your doctor for more details. Keep all medical and lab
appointments.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Different brands of this medication have different
storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store
your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children
and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.