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 corticosteroid should
be discontinued until the infection has been adequately controlled.
The 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.