Fluocinolone acetonide cream is a steroid drug, often prescribed to treat a variety of skin conditions, which works by inhibiting the chemicals that cause inflammation and swelling. This drug may help relieve symptoms like scaling, crusting, and dryness, as well as itching and inflammation. Patients may use it for psoriasis, eczema, and seborrhea, as well as skin-related symptoms of allergic reactions.
Before using fluocinolone acetonide cream, patients should wash their hands thoroughly and soak the affected area of skin. The smallest amount of cream needed to cover the affected area should be used, because applying too much of the medication, or applying it to a large area of skin can cause it to be absorbed through the skin, which may increase the risk of side effects. The cream should be massaged gently into the skin, and patients should wash their hands well afterward. Most people will be prescribed two to four doses each day.
The doctor may advise the patient to bandage the skin after each dose. To wrap the area, the patient should stretch a piece of household plastic wrap over the entire area, held in place with adhesive tape that is secured to an area of unaffected skin. Those who are treating the hands or feet may instead use plastic gloves or plastic bags. A new wrap should be applied following each application of this cream.
Some side effects may occur, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become severe. Patients may experience changes in skin color or excessive drying and cracking of the skin. Itching and burning may occur, and acne may develop. Some people have also reported thinning or softening of the skin, and the development of stretch marks.
More serious side effects from fluocinolone acetonide cream should be reported to the doctor as soon as possible. Patients who have absorbed too much of the drug through their skin may experience insomnia, mood changes, and fatigue. Muscle weakness, blurred vision, and weight gain that includes puffiness in the face have also been reported with the use of steroid drugs. Patients who have problems breathing or swallowing, wheezing, or a severe skin rash should seek immediate medical help. Occasionally, the affected area of skin may develop oozing pus or worsening redness and swelling.
Before using fluocinolone acetonide cream, patients should disclose their other medical conditions, medications, and supplements. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid this drug, and it should also not be given to children for long-term use. This cream may be contraindicated for use by those with diabetes, certain vision disorders, and immune disorders.
