Desonide Cream, Ointment and Lotion

DesOwen® (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) Cream, Ointment and Lotion are low to medium potency corticosteroids indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid responsive dermatoses.

Topically applied DesOwen® (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) Cream, Ointment and Lotion can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects (See PRECAUTIONS).

Like other topical corticosteroids, desonide has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.

Pharmacokinetics: The extent of percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids is determined by many factors including the vehicle and the integrity of the epidermal barrier. Occlusive dressings with hydrocortisone for up to 24 hours have not been demonstrated to increase penetration; however, occlusion of hydrocortisone for 96 hours markedly enhances penetration. Topical corticosteroids can be absorbed from normal intact skin. Inflammation and/or other disease processes in the skin may increase percutaneous absorption.

Studies performed with DesOwen® (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) Cream, Ointment, and Lotion indicate that they are in the low to medium range of potency as compared with other topical corticosteroids.

Desonide 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 desonide topical on broken or infected skin. Also avoid using this medication in open wounds.

In controlled clinical trials, the total incidence of adverse reactions associated with the use of desonide was approximately 8%. These were: stinging and burning approximately 3%, irritation, contact dermatitis, condition worsened, peeling of skin, itching, intense transient erythema, and dryness/scaliness, each less than 2%.

The following additional local adverse reactions have been reported infrequently with other topical corticosteroids, and they may occur more frequently with the use of occlusive dressings, especially with higher potency corticosteroids. These reactions are listed in an approximate decreasing order of occurrence: folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae, and miliaria.

Read the entire FDA prescribing information for DesOwen (Desonide Cream, Ointment and Lotion)