fluticasone topical Health Article

Generic name(s):

fluticasone topical

Brand name(s):

Cutivate

What is the most important information I should know about fluticasone topical?

Do not use plastic coverings, bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area (occlusive dressings) unless your doctor directs you to do so. The use of occlusive dressings will greatly increase the amount of drug the body absorbs. If you do use an occlusive dressing, do not use it for more than 12 hours a day.

Do not use fluticasone topical to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be very dangerous.

Do not use fluticasone topical to treat a child, unless it is prescribed by a doctor for the child. Children are more sensitive to the effects of fluticasone topical.

What is fluticasone topical?

Fluticasone is a topical steroid. It reduces or inhibits the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.

Fluticasone is used to treat the inflammation caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis.

Fluticasone topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using fluticasone topical?

Return to your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse. Fluticasone topical alone will not treat your condition if it is an infection.

Fluticasone topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether fluticasone topical will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. If it is necessary to use fluticasone during pregnancy, the smallest amount possible should be applied, for the shortest time necessary to treat the condition, under the supervision of a doctor. It is also not known whether fluticasone passes into breast milk. Do not use fluticasone topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use fluticasone topical to treat a child, unless it is prescribed by a doctor for the child. Children are more sensitive to the effects of fluticasone topical.

How should I use fluticasone topical?

Apply the cream or ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after each application, unless you are using fluticasone topical to treat a hand condition.

Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it gently into the skin.

Use caution on areas where your skin creases, such as armpits, knees, and elbows. These areas may absorb more medication. Also, avoid your eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.

If you need to protect the area, it can be covered with a breathable cotton gauze dressing. Avoid using plastic, occlusive dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area.

Do not use fluticasone topical to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be very dangerous.

It is important to use fluticasone topical regularly to get the most benefit.

Store fluticasone topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.