fluocinolone topical oil

What is the most important information I should know about fluocinolone topical oil?

Do not use this medicine 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.

Children can absorb larger amounts of this medication through the skin and may be more likely to have side effects.

What is fluocinolone topical oil?

Fluocinolone topical (for the skin) is a steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.

Fluocinolone body oil is used to treat atopic dermatitis (a form of eczema). Fluocinolone scalp oil is used to treat scalp psoriasis.

Fluocinolone topical oil may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using fluocinolone topical oil?

To make sure fluocinolone topical oil is safe for you, tell your doctor 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.

Children can absorb larger amounts of this medication through the skin and may be more likely to have 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 fluocinolone topical oil?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Topical steroid medicine can be absorbed through the skin, which may cause steroid side effects throughout the body.

To treat atopic dermatitis, moisten the skin and apply fluocinolone topical oil in a thin film. Rub gently into the skin. Use only enough oil to cover the affected skin. Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to.

To treat scalp psoriasis, apply fluocinolone topical oil at bedtime. Wet or dampen the hair and scalp thoroughly and apply the medicine directly to the scalp in a thin film. Massage it in well and cover your scalp with the supplied shower cap. Leave the medication on overnight or for at least 4 hours. Wash and thoroughly rinse your hair with regular shampoo the next morning.

If you prefer not to wash your hair every day, you may still use fluocinolone oil daily between washings. Simply apply the medication without wetting the hair and massage gently into the scalp. Leave the medication on your scalp for at least 4 hours, then rinse thoroughly.

When treating atopic dermatitis, fluocinolone topical oil may be applied twice daily for up to 4 weeks or until your symptoms disappear.

When treating scalp psoriasis, fluocinolone topical oil may be used daily until your symptoms improves. Then you may continue using the medication once per week, or often enough to keep the skin soft and free from scales or crusting.

If you use this medication long-term, you may need frequent medical tests at your doctor's office.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of fluocinolone topical oil 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 fluocinolone topical oil?

What are the possible side effects of fluocinolone topical oil?

• blurred vision, headache;
• thinning skin, easy bruising;
• mood changes;
• weight gain, puffiness in your face; or
• muscle weakness, feeling tired.

Common side effects may include:

• mild skin itching, burning, dryness, or other irritation;
• temporary hair loss;
• swollen hair follicles;
• blisters, pimples, or crusting of treated skin;
• changes in color of treated skin;
• skin rash or irritation around your mouth;
• fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose; or
• red spots or the appearance of tiny veins (especially around your nose, cheeks, or chin).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect fluocinolone topical oil?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied fluocinolone. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about fluocinolone topical oil.