Fluticasone Topical (patient information)
Why this medication is prescribed
Fluticasone, a corticosteroid, is used to reduce inflammation and relieve itching, redness, dryness, and scaling associated with various skin disorders.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How this medication should be used
Fluticasone comes as an ointment and cream to apply to the skin. It usually is applied two to four times a day at evenly spaced intervals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use fluticasone exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not stop using fluticasone without talking to your doctor.
Thoroughly clean the affected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication. The scalp lotion should be applied directly from the squeeze bottle to the affected area.
Special precautions
Before using fluticasone:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluticasone or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are using, especially skin products containing hydrocortisone and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have any other illnesses, infections, or allergies.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking fluticasone, call your doctor.
What to do if you 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.
Side effects
Fluticasone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- itching
- burning
- swelling
- redness
- skin rash
- numbness of the fingers
Storage conditions needed for this medication
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 and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
Other information
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Fluticasone is for external use only. Do not let it get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
Brand names
- Cutivate®