What is fluticasone propionate-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic (man-made)
corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). The naturally-occurring
corticosteroid is cortisol or hydrocortisone produced by the adrenal gland.
Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also suppress the
immune response. Similar drugs include betamethasone dipropionate (Diprolene),
clobetasol propionate (Temovate), halobetasol propionate (Ultravate),
betamethasone dipropionate (Diprosone), desoximetasone (Topicort), halcinonide
(Halog), amcinonide (Cyclocort), triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog), fluocinolone
acetonide (Synalar), hydrocortisone butyrate (Locoid), hydrocortisone valerate
(Westcort), and mometasone furoate (Elocon). The FDA approved topical
fluticasone propionate in December, 1990.
What brand names are available for fluticasone propionate-topical?
Cutivate
Is fluticasone propionate-topical available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for fluticasone propionate-topical?
Yes
What are the side effects of fluticasone propionate-topical?
WARNING Prolonged use or application of topical steroids to
large surface areas can depress the ability of the body’s adrenal glands to
produce corticosteroids. This occurs because some of the fluticasone propionate
is absorbed into the body and shuts off the production of the naturally
occurring corticosteroids.Abruptly stopping hydrocortisone in these
individuals can cause symptoms of corticosteroid insufficiency.
What is the dosage for fluticasone propionate-topical?
- Fluticasone is available as cream, lotion, and ointment to apply to
the skin. - It is usually applied one or two times a day to treat most skin
conditions. - As with other corticosteroid medicines, treatment should be
discontinued when control is achieved. - To avoid unwanted side effects,
corticosteroid medicines should be used for the shortest duration possible to
achieve the desired results.
Is fluticasone propionate-topical safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known whether topical fluticasone can be excreted
into human milk. Since many drugs are excreted into human milk topical
fluticasone should be used cautiously in nursing mothers.
What else should I know about fluticasone propionate-topical?
What preparations of fluticasone propionate-topical are available?
- Topical cream: 0.05%
- Topical lotion: 0.05%
- Topical ointment: 0.05%
How should I keep fluticasone propionate-topical stored?
Fluticasone propionate topical preparations should be stored at room
temperature between 15 C to 30 C (59 F and 86 F).