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 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. 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 anti-fungal
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 H PA 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,
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
H PA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than mature patients because of
a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Hypothalamicpituitary-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 chil-dren
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.