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Fluocinolone acetonide - Topical


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Fluocinolone acetonide belongs to a group of medicines called "topical steroids". It helps relieve inflammation, redness and itching that may occur with certain skin problems, such as psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build up causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales) and seborrhoeic dermatitis (a skin condition that causes scaly patches, red skin and dandruff on the scalp).

This medicine is classified as a potent or strong topical steroid. Your doctor will decide the appropriate potency of topical steroid for your condition.
How do I use this medicine?
Apply Fluocinolone acetonide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often, over a larger area, or for a longer period than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as a cream, ointment, gel, topical solution, body oil, and scalp oil.

If you are using the cream, ointment, gel, topical solution, or body oil, follow these steps:
  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
  3. Apply a thin layer of cream, ointment, gel, topical solution, or body oil to the affected area(s) and rub gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap, or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
  4. Wash your hands after using.
  5. Replace the cap of the tube or bottle.
If you are using the gel on the scalp, follow these steps:
  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
  3. Apply a small amount of gel directly onto the scalp at the hair roots using the supplied nozzle. Gently massage the gel into the scalp using your fingertips. Do not cover, wrap, or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
  4. Wash your hands after using.
  5. Replace the cap of the tube.
If you are using the scalp oil, follow these steps:
  1. Wet or dampen your hair and scalp thoroughly before application.
  2. Apply a thin layer of the oil on the scalp and massage well. Cover the scalp with the supplied shower cap.
  3. Leave on overnight or for at least 4 hours before washing off the scalp oil.
  4. Wash your hair with regular shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
If you are using more than one strength of Fluocinolone acetonide on different areas, ensure to apply the correct strength for the affected area(s) of the body.

Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition and your response to the medication. Do not use Fluocinolone acetonide longer than prescribed.

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens during treatment.

If you are using this medicine for a long time, do not stop using Fluocinolone acetonide suddenly as it may worsen your condition. Once your skin condition starts to get better, your doctor will gradually reduce the dose before stopping it completely. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
What should I do if I have forgotten to use this medicine?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • untreated fungal, bacterial or viral skin infection
  • acne (also known as a pimple)
  • rosacea (skin flushing or blushing usually around your nose and cheeks)
  • perioral dermatitis (spotty red rashes of the skin around your mouth)
  • itching of the skin around your anus or genitals
  • diaper rash
as Fluocinolone acetonide may not be suitable for you.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Fluocinolone acetonide to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Do not apply on skin that is broken, infected, or discharging fluid or pus.

Do not apply this medicine on the face, groin, armpits, within skin folds, or nappy area unless instructed by your doctor.

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
What side effects could I experience?
Fluocinolone acetonide may cause any of the following side effects: skin dryness, burning sensation of the skin, and irritation or itching at the application site.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
  • increased hair growth, stretch marks, pimples, thinning of the skin or visible small veins
  • rounding of the face, unusual weight gain in the upper back or belly, slow healing, severe headache
  • confusion, drowsiness, unusual thirst and hunger, passing urine more often, fruity-smelling breath
If this medicine is used continuously over a prolonged period, a withdrawal reaction may occur in some individuals within days or weeks after stopping the treatment. Alert your doctor if you develop severe redness which can spread beyond the initial area treated, itching, burning or stinging sensation, and peeling of the skin. These could be signs of a withdrawal reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I use this with other medicines?
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Fluocinolone acetonide - Topical and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2025 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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