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 any 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, and for impairment of thermal homeostasis. If HPA axis
suppression or elevation of the body temperature occurs, an attempt should be
made to withdraw the drug, to reduce the frequency of application, substitute
a less potent steroid, or use a sequential approach when utilizing the occlusive
technique.
Recovery of HPA axis function and thermal homeostasis are generally prompt
and complete upon discontinuation of the drug. Infrequently, signs and symptoms
of steroid withdrawal may occur, requiring supplemental systemic corticosteroids.
Occasionally, a patient may develop a sensitivity reaction to a particular occlusive
dressing material or adhesive and a substitute material may be necessary.
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.
These preparations are not for ophthalmic use.
Laboratory Tests
A urinary free cortisol test and ACTH stimulation test may be helpful in evaluating
HPA axis suppression.
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 showed
negative results.
Pregnancy
Teratogenic Effects: 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, 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 to body weight ratio.
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.
Geriatric Use
Of approximately 3000 patients included in clinical studies of 0.1% HALOG CREAM (halcinonide cream) ,
14% were 60 years or older, while 4% were 70 years or older. No overall differences
in safety were observed between these patients and younger patients. Efficacy
data have not been evaluated for differences between elderly and younger patients.
Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses
between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older
individuals cannot be ruled out.