Desoximetasone

(dess-ox′ee-met′ah-sone)

Topicort, Topicort Spray

FUNCTIONAL CLASS: Corticosteroid, topical

ACTION: Crosses cell membrane to attach to receptors to decrease inflammation, itching; inhibits multiple inflammatory cytokines

USES: Inflammation/itching of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses on the skin; spray—plaque psoriasis

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Hypersensitivity, use of some preparations on face, axilla, groin, intertriginous areas; monotherapy in primary bacterial infection, TB

PRECAUTIONS: Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, Children, Skin infections, Cushing’s syndrome

DOSAGE AND ROUTES: Adult/child >10 yr.: Apply to affected areas 2 times/day Available forms: Cream 0.05%, 0.25%; ointment 0.05%, 0.25%; gel 0.05%; spray 0.25%

ADMINISTER: Topical route. Do not use with occlusive dressings

Cream / Ointment / Lotion: apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into the cleansed affected area

Gel: apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into the cleansed affected area

SPRAY: discard after 30 days; keep away from heat/flame; store at room temperature

SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, folliculitis, pruritus, dermatitis, maceration

MISC: Hyperglycemia, glycosuria, systemic absorption, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, Cushing’s syndrome

CLINICAL CONSIDERATION

Skin reactions: burning, pruritus, folliculitis, dermatitis

Systemic absorption: HPA suppression and possible adrenocortical insufficiency after stopping treatment

Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: if pregnancy is planned or suspected; no well-controlled studies; use only if benefit outweighs fetal risk; caution use in breastfeeding; do not apply to breast

EVALUATE: Decrease in itching, inflammation on the skin

Teach patient/family: Topical route. Not to use with occlusive dressings

Cream/ointment/lotion: apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into the cleansed affected area

Gel: apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into the cleansed affected area

Spray: discard after 30 days; keep away from heat/flame; store at room temperature