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Fluocinonide Topical

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(floo oh sin' oh nide)

Brand name(s): Fluonex; Lidex; Lidex-E; Lonide

Contents of this page:

Why is this medication prescribed?

Fluocinonide is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Fluocinonide comes in ointment, cream, solution, and gel in various strengths for use on the skin. It usually is applied two to four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use fluocinonide exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not apply it to other areas of your body or wrap or bandage the treated area unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Wash or soak the affected area thoroughly before applying the medicine, unless it irritates your skin. Then apply the ointment, cream, solution, or gel sparingly in a thin film and rub it in gently.

To use the solution or gel on your scalp, part your hair, apply a small amount of the medicine on the affected area, and rub it in gently. Protect the area from washing and rubbing until the solution or gel dries. You may wash your hair as usual but not right after applying the medicine.

Avoid prolonged use on the face, in the genital and rectal areas, and in skin creases and armpits unless directed by your doctor.

If you are using fluocinonide on your face, keep it out of your eyes.

If you are using fluocinonide on a child's diaper area, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Such use may increase side effects.

Do not apply cosmetics or other skin preparations on the treated area without talking with your doctor.

If your doctor tells you to wrap or bandage the treated area, follow these instructions:

Call your doctor if the treated area gets worse or if burning, swelling, or oozing of pus develops.

Do not discontinue treatment abruptly without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before using fluocinonide,

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from fluocinonide are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat. Do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Do not use it to treat other skin conditions. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Last Revised - 01/01/2003


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The MedMaster™ Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.