Fluocinolone - Topical/Cutaneous

Fluocinolone helps relieve inflammation and itch that may occur with certain skin problems.

This medicine may also be used to treat 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) of the scalp.

Apply Fluocinolone exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as a cream, ointment, solution, body or scalp oil, and shampoo.

If you have been given a cream, ointment, topical solution or body oil, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Clean and dry affected area before application.
3. Apply a thin layer of Fluocinolone 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 have been given the scalp oil, follow these steps:

1. Wet or dampen your hair and scalp thoroughly.
2. Apply a thin film on the scalp and massage well. Cover scalp with the supplied shower cap.
3. Leave on overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours before washing off the scalp oil.
4. Wash your hair with regular shampoo and rinse thoroughly.

If you have been given the shampoo, follow these steps:

1. Shake the bottle well before using the shampoo.
2. Apply a small amount onto your scalp and work gently into a lather. Leave the shampoo on your scalp for at least 5 minutes. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
3. Rinse your hair and scalp with water. Wash it thoroughly and let your hair dry.
4. Wash your hands after using.

Avoid contact with eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. 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 severity of your condition and response to the medication.

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 use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• untreated fungal, bacterial or viral skin infection
• acne (also known as pimples)
• rosacea (severe skin flushing usually around your nose and cheeks)
• spotty red rashes of the skin around your mouth
• itching of the skin around your anus or genitals

as Fluocinolone may not be suitable for you.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Fluocinolone 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.

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

Fluocinolone may cause any of the following side effects: burning sensation, itching, irritation, dryness, and thinning of the skin.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
• rounding of the face, unusual weight gain in the upper back, slow healing
• changes in the skin tone, acne, stretch marks
• fruity-smelling breath, increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Let your doctor know if you are using any other creams, ointments or other medicines on the affected area.

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.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.