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
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 using
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, so that supplemental systemic corticosteroids are
required.
Pediatric patients may absorb proportionately larger
amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic
toxicity (see Pediatric Use under PRECAUTIONS).
If irritation develops, topical corticosteroids should be
discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
In the presence of dermatologic infections, the use of an
appropriate antifungal or antibacterial agent should be instituted. If a
favorable response does not occur promptly, Cordran 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.
Usage in Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C
Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory
animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. The
more potent corti-costeroids 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 for pregnant patients
or 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, 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 do 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.