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Corticosteroid Combinations Topical Information - Drug Interactions, Uses and Benefits

Type of Drug:

Topical anti-inflammatory, anti-itching agents.

Uses:

To treat a variety of corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions. Some of these include eczema; insect bites; poison ivy, oak, or sumac; external anal itching; and allergic inflammation from soaps, detergents, cosmetics, or jewelry.

Vanoxide-HC is used to treat acne.

Components of these topical corticosteroid combinations include:

Hydrocortisone is used for its anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and vasoconstrictive (blood vessel narrowing) effects.

lodochlorhydroxyquin and iodoquinol are used for their anti fungal, antibacterial, and anti eczematous effects.

Pramoxine Hcl I s used for its local anesthetic effects.

Urea is mild keratollytic and hydrates dry skin.

Diphenhydramine and chlorcyclizine are antihistamines used to treat itching.

Benzoyl peroxide is used for its peeling and drying effects.

Precautions:

Do not use in the following situations:

Use with caution in the following situations:

use of more potent steroids prolonged use children use over large surface areas occlusive dressing use

  • Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Topical corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

  • Breastfeeding: It is not known whether topical corticosteroids appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

  • Children: Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than adult patients because of a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Administration of topical corticosteroids to children should be limited to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Chronic corticosteroid therapy may interfere with the growth and development of children.

  • Lab Tests: Lab tests may be required to monitor long-term or high-dose therapy. Tests may include urinary free cortisone or ACTH stimulation tests.

  • Sulfites: Some of these products may contain sulfite preservatives that can cause allergic reactions in certain individuals. Check package label when available or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or if you are planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements with topical corticosteroid combinations. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to b prescribed.

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many topical corticosteroid combination users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Skin: Burning; itching; rash; irritation; dryness; inflammation of hair follicles; excessive hair growth; acne; hypo pigmentation; skin irritation around the mouth; allergic contact dermatitis; tearing of the skin; secondary infection; skin atrophy; stretch marks; plugged or inflamed sweat follicles.

Other: Reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression; manifestations of Cushing's syndrome; high blood sugar; sugar in the urine; abnormal thyroid tests ( containing products only); false-positive ferric chloride test for phenylketonuria (PKU) (iodochlorhydroxyquin - containing products only).

Guidelines for Use:

  • For external use only.

  • Avoid contact with the eyes.

  • Proc to Foam-HC Aerosol is for anal or perianal use only.

  • Topicalcorticosteroids are generally applied to the affected area as a thin film and rubbed in gently 3 or 4 times daily depending on the severity of the condition. See individual product information for specific instructionS.

  • Washing or soaking the affected area and then drying it before applications encouraged, as this may increase drug penetration.

  • The treated skin should not be bandaged or otherwise covered or wrapped so as to be occlusive unless directed to do so by your doctor,

  • Occlusive dressings may be used for the management of psoriasis Or recalcitrant conditions, Discontinue the use of occlusive dressings and notify your doctor if symptoms worsen or an infection develops.

  • HC Derma-P ax is most effective when used as a wet dressing.

  • Avoid prolonged use, especially near the eyes, on the face, on genital and rectal areas, and in skin folds.

  • Do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants on children being treated with topical corticotrophin the diaper area, Such garments function as occlusive dressings,

  • Skin infections may worsen. It may be necessary to stop the corticotrophin and treat the infection.

  • Allergic reactions may occur. If the condition being treated worsens or irritation, burning, redness, pain, swelling, or stinging persists, discontinue use and contact your doctor.

  • lodochlorhydroxyquin may interfere with thyroid function tests. Tell your doctor if you are using this medicine. Benzoyl peroxide may bleach hair or clothing.

  • Aerosol containers should never be inserted into the vagina or anus. Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments,

  • Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F) in a tightly closed container.

  • Aerosol foams are in pressurized containers. Do not puncture, incinerate, or expose to high heat. Store upright at room temperature (59° to 86°F), Do hot refrigerate.