Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
cream/lotion/ointment
- 0.05%
foam
- 0.05%
gel
- 0.05%
Dermatoses
Cream/ointment/lotion: Apply sparingly to affected area(s) q8-12hr; discontinue therapy if control achieved and reassess diagnosis if no improvement within 4 weeks
Gel or foam: Apply q12hr; discontinue use when control is achieved
Dosing Considerations
If no improvement seen within 4 weeks, reassessment of diagnosis may be necessary; treatment beyond 4 consecutive weeks not recommended; do not use with occlusive dressings; avoid contact with eyes or other mucous membranes
For topical use only; not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use
Dosage Forms & Strengths
cream/lotion/ointment
- 0.05%
foam
- 0.05%
gel
- 0.05%
Dermatoses
<3 years: Safety and efficacy not established
≥3 years: Apply foam or gel sparingly to affected area(s) q8-12hr; discontinue therapy if control achieved
Dosing Considerations
If no improvement seen within 4 weeks, reassessment of diagnosis may be necessary; treatment beyond 4 consecutive weeks not recommended; do not use with occlusive dressings; avoid contact with eyes or other mucous membranes
For topical use only; not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Skin atrophy
Striae
Hypertension
Headache
Irritability
Hyperglycemia
Itching
Scaly skin
Acneform lesions
Pigmentation changes
HPA suppression (with higher potency used >2 wk)
Warnings
Contraindications
None
Cautions
Shown to reversibly suppress the HPA axis; children may exhibit greater susceptibility to corticosteroid-induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing syndrome due to larger skin surface area to body weight ratio
Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and unmasking of latent diabetes mellitus can result from systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids
Use medium-to-very high potency topical corticosteroids for <2 wk to reduce local and systemic adverse effects; avoid use on face, folds, groin owing to increased absorption
Use low potency topical corticosteroids for chronic therapy
May cause local skin adverse reactions; if irritation develops, discontinue treatment and institute appropriate therapy; allergic contact dermatitis with corticosteroids is usually diagnosed by observing a failure to heal rather than noticing a clinical exacerbation; corroborate with appropriate diagnostic patch testing
If concomitant skin infections are present or develop, initiate appropriate antifungal, antibacterial, or antiviral agent; if favorable response does not occur promptly, discontinue desonide until infection controlled
Use of topical corticosteroids may increase risk of posterior subcapsular cataracts and glaucoma
Avoid contact with eyes; advise patients to report any visual symptoms and consider referral to ophthalmologist for evaluation
Because of potential for systemic absorption, use of topical corticosteroids may require that patients be periodically evaluated for HPA axis suppression; factors that predispose a patient using a topical corticosteroid to HPA axis suppression include use of more potent steroids, use over large surface areas, use over prolonged periods, use under occlusion, use on an altered skin barrier, and use in patients with liver failure
An ACTH stimulation test may be helpful in evaluating patients for HPA axis suppression; if HPA axis suppression documented, an attempt should be made to gradually withdraw drug, to reduce frequency of application, or to substitute a less potent steroid; manifestations of adrenal insufficiency may require supplemental systemic corticosteroids; recovery of HPA axis function is generally prompt and complete upon discontinuation of topical corticosteroids
Use of more than one corticosteroid-containing product at the same time may increase total systemic corticosteroid exposure
Local adverse reactions may be more likely to occur with occlusive use, prolonged use or use of higher potency corticosteroids; reactions may include skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, secondary infection, and miliaria; some local adverse reactions may be irreversible
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
There are no available data on use in pregnant women to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes
Animal data
- In animal reproduction studies, topical administration (cream 0.05%) during organogenesis caused malformations characteristic of corticosteroids in rats and in rabbits; available data do not allow calculation of relevant comparisons of systemic exposure between animals and humans after topical use
Lactation
There are no data on presence in human or animal milk, effects on breastfed infant, or on milk production; unknown whether topical administration could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in human milk; developmental and health benefits should be considered along with mother’s clinical need for therapy and any potential adverse effects on breastfed infant from therapy or from the underlying maternal condition
To minimize potential exposure to breastfed infant via breast milk, use on smallest area of skin and for shortest duration possible while breastfeeding; advise breastfeeding women to wash off any amount that may have been applied to nipple and areola prior to breastfeeding to avoid direct infant exposure
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Corticosteroids decrease inflammation by stabilizing leukocyte lysosomal membranes, preventing release of destructive acid hydrolases from leukocytes; inhibiting macrophage accumulation in inflamed areas; reducing leukocyte adhesion to capillary endothelium; reducing capillary wall permeability and edema formation; decreasing complement components; antagonizing histamine activity and release of kinin from substrates; reducing fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition, and subsequent scar tissue formation
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Dependent on nature of skin at application; occlusion and inflammation may increase absorption
Metabolism: Liver
Excretion: Primarily urine
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verdeso topical - | 0.05 % foam |  | |
| DesOwen topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desonide topical - | 0.05 % lotion |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
desonide topical
DESONIDE CREAM/GEL/OINTMENT - TOPICAL
(DES-oh-nide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Desonate, Desowen, Tridesilon
USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (such as eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash). Desonide reduces the swelling, itching and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. Desonide is a mild corticosteroid.
HOW TO USE: Use this medication only on the skin.Wash your hands. Before applying the medication, clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of the medication to the affected area and gently rub in, usually 2-3 times daily, or as directed by your doctor. If using the gel, apply the gel usually only 2 times daily. Do not bandage, wrap, or cover the area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.After applying the medication, wash and dry your hands, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. When applying this medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes because this may worsen or cause glaucoma, or cause irritation. Also, avoid getting this medication in the nose or mouth. If you get this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse right away with plenty of water.Use this medication only for the condition prescribed.Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse after 2 weeks.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stinging, burning, itching, irritation, dryness, or redness may occur when first applied to the skin. This should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: stretch marks, skin thinning/discoloration, acne, excessive hair growth, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis).Skin infections can become worse when using this medication. Notify your doctor promptly if redness, swelling or irritation does not improve.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using desonide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as hydrocortisone, prednisone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: poor blood circulation, diabetes, immune system problems, other skin conditions (such as rosacea, perioral dermatitis).Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated.Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is unknown if this medication, when applied to the skin, passes into breast milk. However, similar drugs, when taken by mouth, pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. If used during breastfeeding, avoid applying the medication to the breast/nipple area to prevent the infant from swallowing the medication.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug are: oral corticosteroids (such as prednisone), other topical corticosteroids (such as hydrocortisone), drugs that suppress the immune system (such as cyclosporine).
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.Tell all your doctors you use or have used this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Different brands/strengths of this medication may have different storage requirements. Read the package labeling or ask your pharmacist for the storage requirements for the product you are using. Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised October 2022. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
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- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
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