WARNINGS
No information provided.
PRECAUTIONS
General
Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids has
produced reversible hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal (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 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.
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. Â Chronic corticosteroid therapy may interfere with the growth and
development of children.