Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
topical cream
- 0.05%
- 0.25%
topical gel
- 0.05%
topical ointment
- 0.25%
- 0.05%
Corticosteroid-Responsive Dermatoses
Apply thin film topically to affected area(s) q12hr; discontinue therapy if control achieved and reassess diagnosis if no improvement within 4 weeks
Dosage Forms & Strengths
topical cream
- 0.05%
- 0.25%
topical gel
- 0.05%
topical ointment
- 0.25%
Corticosteroid-Responsive Dermatoses
High-potency topical steroid
Apply sparingly to affected area(s) q12 hr and limit to minimum amount necessary for therapeutic efficacy; avoid face; discontinue therapy if control achieved and reassess diagnosis if no improvement within 4 weeks
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Skin atrophy
Striae
Acneform lesions
Pruritus
Irritation
Miliaria
Folliculitis
Erythema
Hypopigmentation
Vesiculation
Pigmentation changes
HPA suppression (with higher potency used >2 wk)
Telangiectasias, dryness, perioral dermatitis, secondary infection
Cataracts, glaucoma, and increased intraocular pressure
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to drug or excipients
Cautions
Keep out of reach of children
Use caution in children; use smallest amount for shortest period of time
Children may exhibit greater susceptibility to corticosteroid-induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome due to larger skin surface area to body weight ratio
Chronic topical corticosteroid therapy may interfere with growth and development in children
Use med to very high potency for <2 wk to reduce local and systemic side effects
Use low potency for chronic therapy
Kaposi's sarcoma reported with prolonged corticosteroid therapy
Avoid medium to very high potency on face, folds, groin because can increase steroid absorption
Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can produce reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HA) axis suppression with potential for clinical glucocorticosteroid insufficiency; this may occur during treatment or upon withdrawal of topical corticosteroid
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 is documented, an attempt should be made to gradually withdraw drug to reduce frequency of application, or 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;
Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and unmasking of latent diabetes mellitus can also result from systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids
Use of more than one corticosteroid-containing product at 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 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
Allergic contact dermatitis to any component of topical corticosteroids is usually diagnosed by failure to heal rather than a clinical exacerbation
Clinical diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis can be confirmed by patch testing
Concomitant skin infections should be treated with appropriate antimicrobial agent; if infection persists, therapy should be discontinued until infection has been adequately treated
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; observational studies suggest maternal use of high to super-high potency topical steroids; may be associated with an increased risk of low birthweight infants; advise pregnant woman that therapy may increase potential risk of low birth weight infants and to use drug on the smallest area of skin and for shortest duration possible
Desoximetasone has been shown to cause malformations and be embryotoxic in mice, rats, and rabbits when given by subcutaneous or dermal routes of administration at doses 3 to 30 times the human dose based on a body surface area comparison
Lactation
There is no information on presence of topically administered desoximetasone in human milk, effects on breastfed infant, or on milk production; not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk; the developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with mother's clinical need for therapy and any potential adverse effects on breastfed infant from therapy or from underlying maternal condition
To minimize potential exposure to breastfed infant via breast milk, use spray on smallest area of skin and for shortest duration possible while breastfeeding; advise breastfeeding women not to apply spray directly to nipple and areola 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
Absorption: yes
Potency
High potency
Relative potency: ointment >cream >lotion >solution
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topicort topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| Topicort topical - | 0.05 % gel |  | |
| Topicort topical - | 0.25 % liquid |  | |
| Topicort topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| Topicort topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| Topicort topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % gel |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % gel |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % liquid |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % cream |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.05 % ointment |  | |
| desoximetasone topical - | 0.25 % liquid |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
desoximetasone topical
DESOXIMETASONE - TOPICAL
(des-OX-i-MET-a-sone)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Topicort, Topicort LP
USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (such as eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash). Desoximetasone reduces the swelling, itching and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. This medication is a strong corticosteroid.
HOW TO USE: Use this medication only on the skin. Do not use it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.Wash and dry 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 as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. Do not cover, bandage or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.After applying the medication, wash 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 as this may worsen or cause glaucoma. Also, avoid getting this medication in the nose or mouth. If you get the medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse with plenty of water.Use this medication only for the condition prescribed. Do not use it for longer than prescribed.Inform your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, itching, irritation, or dryness may occur when this medication is 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 this medication is used. Notify your doctor if redness, swelling or irritation does not improve.Rarely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed from the skin into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children, and in people who use this medication for a long time or over large areas of the skin. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.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 desoximetasone, 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, immune system problems.Do not use if there is an infection or sore present in the area to be treated.Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time or over large areas of skin can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past few months.Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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.
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.Lab and/or medical tests (such as adrenal gland function) may be done while you are using this medication, especially if you use this drug for an extended period of time or apply it over large areas of the body. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
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: Store at room temperature away. 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 May 2023. 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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