Desonide topical foam

What is this medicine?

DESONIDE (DES oh nide) is a corticosteroid. It is used to treat mild to moderate eczema.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Shake well before use. Turn the can upside down to dispense the foam. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected area. If you are using this medicine on your face, dispense the foam into your hands and rub in gently until the medicine disappears. If you are using this medicine on areas other than the face, you can dispense the foam directly onto the affected area. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your doctor or health care professional tells you to. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. It is important not to use more medicine than prescribed. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• changes in vision

• lack of healing of the skin condition

• painful, red, pus filled blisters in hair follicles

• thinning of the skin with easy bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• burning, irritation of the skin

• increased redness or scaling of the skin

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the treated area without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). This product is flammable. Keep away from fire, flame, and smoking during and right after use. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any active infection

• lack of healing of skin condition

• large areas of burned or damaged skin

• skin wasting or thinning

• an unusual or allergic reaction to desonide, corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better within one week. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are exposed to anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.