Brand name:

Topicort

Why is Topicort prescribed?

Topicort is a synthetic steroid medication in cream, gel, or ointment form that relieves the inflammation and itching caused by a variety of skin conditions.

Most important fact about Topicort

When you use Topicort, you may absorb some of Topicort through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much absorption can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body. To keep this problem to a minimum, avoid using large amounts of Topicort over large areas, do not use it for extended periods of time, and do not cover it with airtight dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages unless specifically told to by your doctor.

Children may absorb more medication than adults do.

How should you use Topicort?

Topicort is for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep it out of your eyes.

Apply a thin coating of Topicort to the affected area. Rub in gently.

The treated area should not be covered unless your doctor has told you to do so.

If Topicort is being used for an infant or toddler with a genital rash, make sure the diapers or plastic pants are not too tight, so that air can circulate.

--If you miss a dose...

Use Topicort only as needed, in the smallest amount required for relief.

--Storage instructions...

Store Topicort at room temperature.

Topicort side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Topicort. The side effects listed below occur infrequently, but may occur more often if the treated area is covered with a bandage.

• Side effects may include:
  Acne-like pimples, blistering, burning of the skin, dryness, excessive growth of hair, infection, inflammation of the hair follicles, irritation, itching, loss of skin pigmentation, prickly heat, skin inflammation around the mouth, rash, redness, softening of the skin, stretch marks on the skin, thinning of the skin

Why should Topicort not be prescribed?

Do not use Topicort if you are sensitive to it or have ever had an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients.

Special warnings about Topicort

Remember to avoid getting Topicort in your eyes. Do not use Topicort to treat any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.

Long-term use of steroids such as Topicort may interfere with the growth and development of children. They may also develop headaches, or bulging at the top of the head. This drug is not recommended for children under 10.

Avoid covering a treated area with tight waterproof diapers or plastic pants. They can increase unwanted absorption of Topicort.

If your skin becomes irritated or infected, stop using Topicort and call your doctor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Topicort

No interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Topicort should not be used over large areas, in large amounts, or for long periods of time during pregnancy unless the benefit outweighs any potential risk to the unborn child. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether topical steroids are absorbed in sufficient amounts to appear in breast milk. If your doctor considers Topicort essential to your health, he or she may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with Topicort is finished.

Recommended dosage for Topicort

ADULTS

Overdosage

Large doses of steroids such as Topicort applied over a large area or for a long time, especially when the treated area is covered, can cause increases in blood sugar and Cushing's syndrome, a condition characterized by a moon-shaped face, emotional disturbances, high blood pressure, weight gain, and, in women, baldness or growth of body and facial hair. Cushing's syndrome may also trigger the development of diabetes. If left uncorrected, Cushing's syndrome may become serious. If you suspect your use of Topicort has led to this problem, seek medical attention immediately.