Desoximetasone topical

• Desoximetasone is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). The naturally-occurring corticosteroid is cortisol or hydrocortisone produced by the adrenal gland. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also suppress the immune response.
• The FDA approved desoximetasone in March 1982.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Yes

• A thin film of Topicort should be applied to the affected areas twice daily.
• Using Topicort beyond 4 weeks is not advisable.

Desoximetasone is a topical medicine used to treat psoriasis, dermatosis, eczema, and other skin conditions.

It's sold under the brand name Topicort.

Desoximetasone is a steroid. It works by preventing the release of certain substances in the body that cause inflammation.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this prescription medicine in 1977. It's marketed as Topicort by Taro Pharmaceuticals.

Desoximetasone Warnings

Before using desoximetasone, tell your doctor if you have, or have ever had:

• Diabetes
• Cushing's syndrome (an overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal gland)
• Circulation problems
• Any condition that affects your immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
• Intracranial hypertension (increased pressure in the head)
• A skin infection
• Thinning of the skin or other skin conditions
• Liver disease
• A recent vaccination
• Measles
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Chickenpox or shingles
• Glaucoma or cataracts (eye conditions)
• Allergies to medicines

If you have diabetes, desoximetasone may raise your blood sugar levels. Be sure to monitor your condition carefully.

Treatment with desoximetasone may lead to an increase or decrease in the level of steroid hormones in your body.

Don't use this medicine for longer than four consecutive weeks, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Using too much desoximetasone — or using this medicine for a long period of time — may raise your risk of developing adrenal gland problems.

Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Blurred vision
• Dizziness or fainting
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Irritability, depression, or anxiety
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Increased thirst or urination
• Unusual weight gain, especially in the face or abdomen
• New or worsening high blood pressure
• Loss of appetite or weight loss
• Muscle weakness

Steroids may affect growth in some children and teens. Talk to your doctor if this is a concern.

Don't use this medicine on a child under age 10 without consulting with a doctor.

Tell your healthcare provider you're using desoximetasone before having any type of medical or dental procedure.

Let your doctor know if your symptoms worsen or don't improve after a few days of treatment with desoximetasone.

If you use this medicine long-term, your healthcare provider will check your blood often to monitor your condition. Keep all appointments with your doctor and laboratory.

Pregnancy and Desoximetasone

It's not known whether desoximetasone could harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy.

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant, or might become pregnant, while using this medicine.

It's also unknown whether desoximetasone passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding a baby while using this drug.

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.

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.

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.

Desoximetasone is used to treat a type of skin condition (plaque psoriasis). It reduces the swelling, itching, and redness that may occur with plaque psoriasis. This medication is a strong corticosteroid.

How to use Desoximetasone Spray, Non-Aerosol

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using desoximetasone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is for use on the skin only. Do not use it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, mouth, or vagina. If this occurs, rinse with plenty of water. Do not use it on thinning skin.

Wash and dry your hands before applying the medication, then clean and dry the affected area. Spray only enough medication to cover the affected areas with a thin layer and gently rub in as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. Do not cover, bandage, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. After applying the medication, wash your hands unless you are using this medication to treat the hands.

This medication is flammable. Avoid smoking when applying this medication and do not use or store it near heat or open flame.

Use this medication only for the condition prescribed. Once your skin condition is under control, you should stop using desoximetasone unless directed by your doctor. Do not use it for longer than prescribed.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens after 4 weeks. According to the manufacturer, you should not use this drug for longer than 4 weeks.

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.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: other corticosteroids (such as prednisone, hydrocortisone).