Desonide helps relieve swelling, redness, itchiness, and irritation that may occur with certain skin problems that have not responded to milder anti-inflammatory (steroid) medicines.
Apply Desonide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as cream, ointment, lotion, gel, and foam.
If you are using cream, ointment, gel, lotion, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry the affected area before application.
- Rub Desonide gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube.
If you are using foam, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Turn the container upside-down and put a small amount into your hands or directly onto the affected area. Do not apply it directly on your face.
- Rub Desonide gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
Avoid contact with eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition and response to the medication.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Desonide to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not apply on skin that is broken, infected, or discharging fluid or pus.
Do not use Desonide gel on the underarm or groin areas of children unless instructed by the doctor. Desonide gel is not recommended for the treatment of diaper dermatitis.
This medicine in its various forms can be flammable. Avoid exposure of the medicine to fire and flames or smoking during and immediately after applying Desonide on your skin.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. blood cortisol [body's stress hormone] levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring for signs of bacterial or fungal infections and changes in vision may also be needed.
Desonide may cause any of the following side effects: headache, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, skin itching, dryness, rash, or irritation.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- skin changes e.g. pimples, stretch marks, inflammation or infection of hair follicles, loss of skin colour
- changes in eyesight, severe eye irritation or pain; increased pressure in the eye
- confusion, feeling sleepy, unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, fruity-smelling breath
- signs of Cushing's disease (a disorder that causes too much production of cortisol) e.g. rounding of the face, weight gain in the upper back or belly, severe headache
- signs of weak adrenal gland e.g. severe upset stomach or vomiting, severe dizziness or passing out, muscle weakness, tiredness, changes in mood, decreased appetite, weight loss
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Store the topical foam at a temperature between 15-30°C. Keep away from heat or open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture the container.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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