Flucinonide Cream is a prescription topical corticosteroid used to reduce and relieve symptoms caused from a variety of common skin conditions. It does so by reducing the actions of chemicals in the skin that can cause redness, inflammation, and swelling. Doctors regularly prescribe this kind of medicine for those suffering from eczema, various forms of dermatitis, or recent exposure to poison ivy or oak.
How Does Fluocinonide Cream Work?
Fluocinonide works by being absorbed into the skin through topical application. Once it is absorbed by the skin the cream goes to work, constricting nearby blood vessels and halting inflammation-inducing chemical signals that travel from the brain to the immune system. Topical corticosteroids like fluocinonide are regularly used to treat skin disorders.
How is Fluocinonide Cream Used?
Usually prescribed in 0.05% strength solutions, this fluocinonide is a white, non-greasy cream that is meant to be rubbed into the skin. For safety reasons, physicians will usually instruct their patients to immediately wash their hands after using this cream and make sure the cream avoids contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. Use widely depends on the patient and the condition, but doctors will usually recommend applying the cream 2 to 4 times a day for a couple weeks until the condition has cleared.
What Are the Side Effects of Fluocinonide Cream?
Most people do not experience negative side effects while using fluocinonide cream. However, some may be allergic to fluocinonide’s active or inactive ingredients leading to swelling, hives, or other skin irritations not limited to the site where the cream was applied, as well as stuffy nose, sore throat, thinning or softening of the skin, and stretch marks. Severe allergic reactions may even include dizziness, and a rapid heart rate. Doctors are also very cautious about prescribing this cream to infants and young children due to the possibility of serious health complications. These steroids can cause hormonal imbalances in young adults, leading to stunted growth, weight changes and high blood pressure. Some children can even develop Cushing’s syndrome after being exposed to the corticosteroids in fluocinonide cream.