This medication is used to treat a variety of skin
conditions (such as eczema, psoriasis, rash). Fluticasone reduces swelling
(inflammation), itching, and redness. This medication is a medium-strength
corticosteroid. It is available in several forms, including cream,
ointment, and lotion. Your doctor will choose the type of product based on
your skin condition and the area of your body to be
treated.
Fluticasone ointment is not recommended for use by
children because of the risk of serious side effects.
Use this medication on the skin only. However, do not
use it on the face, groin, or underarms, or for diaper rash, unless
directed to do so by your doctor.
Wash and dry your hands before using. Clean and dry the
affected area. Apply a thin film of medication to the affected area and
gently rub in as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. Do
not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your
doctor.
Wash your hands after each use, unless you are using
this medication to treat the hands. Avoid getting this medication in your
eyes because it may worsen or cause glaucoma. Also avoid getting it in your
nose or mouth. If medication gets in these areas, rinse with plenty of
water.
Use this medication only for the condition prescribed.
Do not apply large amounts of this medication, use it more often, or use it
for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and
your risk of side effects may increase.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
in 2 weeks or if it gets worse.
Burning, itching, stinging, or dryness may occur when
you apply this medication, but usually only lasts a short time. 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
- excessive hair growth
- small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)
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 fluticasone, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients (such as formaldehyde), 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
- diabetes
- immune system problems
Corticosteroids can make skin infections worse and more
difficult to treat. Tell your doctor if you have a skin infection or if
your condition does not improve.
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 medication passes into breast
milk. 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 other skin problems unless told to
do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those
cases.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as adrenal gland
function) may be done while you are using this medication, especially if
you use this drug for a long time or apply it over large areas of the body.
Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more
details.
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.