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 which 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 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.
Children 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.
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 deleterious effect
on the infant. Nevertheless, caution should be exercised when topical corticosteroids
are administered to a nursing woman.
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 body weight ratio.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and intracranial hypertension have been reported in children receiving topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression in children 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 children should be limited to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Chronic corticosteroid therapy may interfere with the growth and development of children.