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 steriod 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, to substitute a less potent
steroid, or to 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
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,
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.