fluocinolone topical

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

fluocinolone topical is a potent synthetic corticosteroid that is used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It has a broad spectrum of activity and is effective in the treatment of a variety of dermatological conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin disorders. 

fluocinolone is a type of corticosteroid that acts by reducing inflammation and suppressing immune system. It is believed to work by inhibiting the production of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, and by preventing the activation of immune cells such as T cells and macrophages. 

fluocinolone is available in various forms for topical administration, including creams, ointments, lotions, and solutions. It is also available as an intravitreal implant for the treatment of certain eye conditions. The specific form and strength of fluocinolone used will depend on the condition being treated and the severity of the symptoms. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Skin atrophy 

Intracranial hypertension 

Acneiform eruptions 

Acneiform eruptions 

Burning 

Erythema 

HPA suppression 

Striae 

Telangiectasia 

Ketatosis pilaris 

Pustules 

Dryness 

Pigmentation changes
 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

There are no black box warnings for fluocinolone topical. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

fluocinolone topical is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to fluocinolone acetonide or any components of the preparation. It is also contraindicated in patients with tuberculosis, fungal, or viral skin infections, and in patients with rosacea, perioral dermatitis, acne vulgaris, and skin atrophy. Additionally, it is contraindicated in patients with ocular herpes simplex, and those with a history of glaucoma or cataracts.  

Caution: 

• Skin infections: fluocinolone may increase the risk of developing skin infections, and it should not be used if there is an active infection in the treatment area. 
• Diabetes: Topical corticosteroids like fluocinolone can increase blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, and caution should be exercised in this population. 
• Ocular herpes simplex: fluocinolone should be used with caution in patients with ocular herpes simplex, as it may cause corneal perforation.

Comorbidities: 

• Diabetes mellitus: Topical steroids can increase blood glucose levels and worsen diabetes control. 
• Hypertension: fluocinolone can cause fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances, which may worsen hypertension. 
• Infections: Topical steroids can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of developing or worsening infections. 
• Osteoporosis: Long-term use of topical steroids can lead to bone loss and osteoporosis, especially in older adults. 
• Glaucoma and cataracts: Topical steroids can increase the risk of developing or worsening glaucoma and cataracts when applied around the eyes. 
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: fluocinolone topical should be used under caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and affect the developing fetus or nursing infant. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: pregnancy category C 

Lactation: safety and efficacy not established  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: Satisfactory and well-controlled studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: There is no evidence of risk to the fetus found in animal reproduction studies and there are not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: Adverse effects on the fetus found with evidence in animal reproduction studies and no adequate evidence for an effect in humans, care must be taken for potential risks in pregnant women 
• Category D: There is adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite potential risks may be used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh risks over benefits These category drugs should be prohibited for pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

fluocinolone is a synthetic corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. It works by binding to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors and inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and prostaglandins. 

fluocinolone topical preparations are available in different formulations including ointment, cream, solution, lotion, and oil. These formulations have different pharmacokinetic profiles, with ointment having the highest potency and lowest systemic absorption compared to other formulations. 

The onset of action of fluocinolone varies depending on the formulation and the severity of the condition being treated. Generally, topical fluocinolone has a rapid onset of action, with improvement in symptoms observed within a few days to a week of starting treatment.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

fluocinolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid and acts as an anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive agent. It exerts its pharmacological effects by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, leading to the formation of a hormone-receptor complex. This complex then binds to specific DNA sequences, thereby modulating gene expression and leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins. 

fluocinolone also inhibits the production of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins and (TNF)-alpha, and reduces the accumulation of immune cells at the site of inflammation. Additionally, it suppresses the activity of phospholipase A2, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

fluocinolone topical is absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes. 

Distribution 

After topical application, the drug is distributed to the local tissue and to the systemic circulation. 

Metabolism 

fluocinolone is metabolized primarily in the liver by the enzyme cytochrome P450 3A4. 

Elimination and excretion 

The drug and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine, with a small amount excreted in the feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

fluocinolone topical is available as a cream, ointment, solution, or lotion and is for topical use only. The exact administration instructions may vary depending on the specific product and the condition being treated. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider or the medication label. 

In general, the affected area should be cleaned and dried before applying the medication. A thin layer of the medication should be applied to the affected area and gently rubbed in. The frequency of application and duration of treatment may depend on the condition being treated, but it is usually applied once or twice daily. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: fluocinolone topical 

Pronounced: [ floo-oh-sin-oh-lone-top-i-kal]  

Why do we use fluocinolone topical? 

• Eczema: It can help reduce inflammation and itching associated with eczema. 
• Psoriasis: It is used to reduce the redness, scaling, and itching caused by psoriasis. 
• Dermatitis: It is used to treat contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and other forms of dermatitis. 
• Allergic reactions: It can be used to reduce inflammation caused by allergic reactions, including insect bites, poison ivy, and other allergens. 
• Acne: It can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. 
• Lichen planus: It is used to reduce the itching and inflammation associated with lichen planus. 
• Lupus erythematosus: It can help reduce the redness, scaling, and itching associated with lupus erythematosus. 
• Pruritus: It is used to treat pruritus or itching associated with various skin conditions. 
• Keloids: It can be used to reduce the size and appearance of keloids, which are raised scars.