WARNINGS
No information provided.
PRECAUTIONS
General
Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids has produced reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia and glucosuria in some patients.
Conditions that augment systemic absorption include the application of the more potent steroids, use over large surface areas, prolonged use and the addition of occlusive dressings. Therefore, patients receiving a large dose of a potent topical steroid applied to a large surface area or under an occlusive dressing should be evaluated periodically for evidence of HPA axis suppression by using the urinary free cortisol and ACTH stimulation tests. If HPA axis suppression is noted, an attempt should be made to withdraw the drug, to reduce the frequency of application, or to substitute with a less potent steroid.
Recovery of HPA axis function is generally prompt and complete upon discontinuation of the drug.
Infrequently, signs and symptoms of steroid withdrawal may occur, requiring supplemental systemic corticosteroids.
Pediatric patients may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids
and thus be more susceptible to systemic toxicity (see PRECAUTIONS, Pediatric
Use).
If irritation develops, topical corticosteroids should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
In the presence of dermatological infections, the use of an appropriate antifungal
or antibacterial agent should be instituted.
If a favorable response does not occur promptly, the cortico-steroid should
be discontinued until the infection has been adequately controlled.
These products are not for ophthalmic use.
Laboratory Tests
The following tests may be helpful in evaluating the HPA axis suppression:
Urinary free cortisol test
ACTH stimulation test
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, and Impairment of Fertility
Long-term animal studies have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic
potential or the effect on fertility of topical corticosteroids.
Studies to determine mutagenicity with prednisolone and hydrocortisone have revealed negative results.
Pregnancy Category C
Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered
systemically at relatively low dosage levels. The more potent corticosteroids
have been shown to be teratogenic after dermal application in laboratory animals.
There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women on teratogenic
effects from topically applied corticosteroids. Therefore, topical corticosteroids
should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the
potential risk to the fetus. Drugs of this class should not be used extensively
on pregnant patients, in large amounts, or for prolonged periods of time.
Nursing Mothers
It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Systemically administered corticosteroids are secreted into breast milk in quantities not likely to have a deleterious effect on the infant. Nevertheless, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced
HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than mature patients because of
a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome,
and intracranial hypertension have been reported in pediatric patients receiving
topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression in pediatric
patients include linear growth retardation, delayed weight gain, low plasma
cortisol levels, and absence of response to ACTH stimulation. Manifestations
of intracranial hypertension include bulging fontanelles, headaches, and bilateral
papilledema.
Administration of topical corticosteroids to pediatric patients should be limited
to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Chronic
corticosteroid therapy may interfere with the growth and development of pediatric
patients.