Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide).
Absorption: When fluocinolone is used over extensive areas for prolonged periods and under dressings that don't breathe, it is possible that enough medication will absorb into the bloodstream to give rise to unwanted side effects. Therefore, it is advisable to use fluocinolone for brief periods only and to stop using it as soon as the problem clears.
Eyes: Use Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) with caution on lesions close to the eye. Take care to ensure that it does not enter the eye, as Glaucoma may result. Cataracts have been reported following internal use of corticosteroids.
Infection: Topical corticosteroids may increase the risk of developing a skin infection. Contact your doctor if you notice any increased redness, swelling, heat or pain around the area where the medication is applied as these are possible signs of infection.
Peanut allergy: Some formulations of Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) contain refined peanut oil. People with peanut allergy should discuss with their doctor how Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Thinning of skin: Using topical corticosteroid medications for a long period of time can cause skin to thin or soften or cause stretch marks. Your doctor may recommend you stop using Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) once in a while or to apply to one area of the body at a time. Suddenly stopping corticosteroid medication may cause your skin condition to return.
Pregnancy: Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking fluocinolone acetonide, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using certain formulations of fluocinolone acetonide have not been established for children. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) on a child.
The active ingredient in these medications, fluocinolone, belongs to the family of medications known as corticosteroids. Children may be more likely to experience the side effects encountered by using large amounts of this class of medication for long periods of time (e.g., slowing down of growth, delayed weight gain). The use of Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) by children should be limited to the smallest amount that will be effective. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of the use of Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) by children. The use of Derma-Smoothe/fs (Fluocinolone-acetonide) on children should be limited to a 4 week duration.