desoximetasone topical

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Pronunciation: des ox ih MEH ta sone

Brand: Topicort, Topicort LP

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

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Topical steroid medicine can be absorbed through the skin, which may cause steroid side effects throughout the body.

Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with desoximetasone topical can increase the amount of medicine your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor's advice. Children are more likely to absorb large amounts of a topical steroid through the skin. Steroid absorption in children may cause unwanted side effects, or a delay in growth with long-term use. Talk with your doctor if you think your child is not growing at a normal rate while using this medication over a long treatment period.

Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve, or if you develop signs of a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.

What is desoximetasone topical?

Desoximetasone is a topical (for the skin) steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.

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

Desoximetasone topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

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

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to desoximetasone.

To make sure you can safely use desoximetasone topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have any type of skin infection.

Also tell your doctor if you have diabetes. Topical steroid medicines absorbed through the skin may increase the glucose (sugar) levels in your blood or urine.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether desoximetasone topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether desoximetasone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor's advice. Children are more likely to absorb large amounts of a topical steroid through the skin. Steroid absorption in children may cause unwanted side effects, or a delay in growth with long-term use. Talk with your doctor if you think your child is not growing at a normal rate while using this medication over a long treatment period.

How should I use desoximetasone topical?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Topical steroid medicine can be absorbed through the skin, which may cause steroid side effects throughout the body.

Wash your hands before and after using desoximetasone topical, unless you are using the medication to treat the skin on your hands.

Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it gently into the skin. Do not use this medication over a large area of skin.

Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with desoximetasone topical can increase the amount of medicine your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve, or if you develop signs of a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection. It is important to use desoximetasone topical regularly to get the most benefit.

If you use this medication long-term, your blood will need to be tested often. Visit your doctor regularly.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep from freezing.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

An overdose of desoximetasone topical is not expected to produce life threatening symptoms. However, long term use of high steroid doses can lead to symptoms such as thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.

What should I avoid while using desoximetasone topical?

Do not use this medication to treat any skin condition that has not been checked by your doctor.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this does happen, rinse with water. Do not use desoximetasone topical on broken or infected skin. Also avoid using this medication in open wounds.

What are the possible side effects of desoximetasone topical?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have severe irritation of any treated skin, or if you show signs of absorbing desoximetasone topical through your skin, such as:

  • blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights;
  • mood changes;
  • sleep problems (insomnia);
  • weight gain, puffiness in your face; or
  • muscle weakness, feeling tired.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • mild skin itching, burning, peeling, or dryness;
  • thinning or softening of your skin;
  • skin rash or irritation around your mouth;
  • swollen hair follicles;
  • changes in color of treated skin;
  • blisters, pimples, or crusting of treated skin; or
  • stretch marks.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect desoximetasone topical?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied desoximetasone. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about desoximetasone topical.


Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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