Blog Portugal: clocortolone topical

Generic Name: clocortolone topical (kloe KOR toe lone)

Brand Names: Cloderm

What is clocortolone topical?

Clocortolone is a topical (for the skin) steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.

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

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

What is the most important information I should know about clocortolone 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 clocortolone 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 should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using clocortolone topical?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to clocortolone.

Before using clocortolone 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. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether clocortolone 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 clocortolone topical?

Wash your hands before and after using clocortolone 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.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects with long-term use, you may need blood tests. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

An overdose of clocortolone 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 clocortolone topical?

Clocortolone topical should not be used to treat any skin condition your doctor has not prescribed it for.

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

Clocortolone topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty 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 clocortolone 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. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.