Flurandrenolide for inflammatory skin conditions

About flurandrenolide

Flurandrenolide (also known as fludroxycortide) is classed as a potent topical corticosteroid. Topical corticosteroids are also referred to as topical steroids. 'Topical' means it is applied to the skin. Topical steroids are used in addition to moisturizers (emollients) for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. A topical steroid is used when patches of eczema or dermatitis flare up. Flurandrenolide relieves the symptoms of a flare-up by reducing inflammation, itching and redness. It is not a cure for the condition, but it will help to relieve the symptoms. Although less potent topical steroids are often preferred for use in children, a short course of flurandrenolide may be prescribed for a child with severe eczema on the arms or legs.

Short courses of flurandrenolide may also be prescribed for the treatment of psoriasis for areas such as the face, or the inside of elbows and behind the knees.

It is likely you will be prescribed a cream if the affected areas of your skin are moist or weeping, or an ointment if your skin is dry. There is also an adhesive tape available which contains flurandrenolide. This can be cut to fit small areas of skin which have proved difficult to treat over a period of time.

Before using flurandrenolide

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you start using flurandrenolide it is important that your physician knows:

• If you have any areas of infected skin.

• If you have rosacea or acne.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a skin preparation.

How to use flurandrenolide

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The manufacturer's leaflet will give you more information about flurandrenolide and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from using it.

• Apply a small amount of cream or ointment to the areas of skin which are inflamed. Then gently rub it into the skin until it has disappeared. Do not use it on any open sores or areas of infected skin.

• Your physician will tell you how often to apply flurandrenolide. It can be applied two or three times a day, but once a day is often sufficient.

• The amount of topical steroid that you should apply is commonly measured by fingertip units (FTUs). One FTU is the amount of cream or ointment that is squeezed out along an adult's fingertip (that is, from the very end of the finger to the first crease in the finger). As a guide, one FTU is enough to cover an area twice the size of an adult hand. Your physician will give you an idea of how many FTUs you will need to cover the area of your skin which is affected.

• If you are using more than one topical corticosteroid, make sure you know when and where to use each one. If you are unsure, check with your physician or ask your pharmacist for further advice.

• If you are using Cordran® tape, cut a piece of tape to fit the inflamed area. Make sure your skin is dry and hair-free, then apply the tape and leave it in place for the time your physician has said. This is usually no more than 12 hours a day.

• After you have applied flurandrenolide, remember to wash your hands (unless your hands are the treated area).

• If you are using flurandrenolide for psoriasis, make sure you follow your physician's instructions carefully. It should not be used for large areas of psoriasis or for long periods of time, as these can cause your symptoms to flare up again afterwards.

• Children are susceptible to side-effects from topical steroids. The main concern is for children who need frequent courses, as it can have an effect on their growth and this may need to be monitored. If your child has been prescribed flurandrenolide, follow the directions you have been given very carefully, and do not use it for longer than you have been told to. As a general rule, it should not be used for more than 1-2 weeks in children.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are using a moisturizer along with flurandrenolide, apply the moisturizer first. Then wait 10-15 minutes before applying flurandrenolide. This allows time for the moisturizer to be absorbed before the topical steroid is applied. Your skin should be moist but not slippery when you apply flurandrenolide.

• If you have been told to use flurandrenolide on your face, be careful not to get any near your eyes and do not use it for longer periods of time than you have been advised.

• Unless advised to do so by your physician, do not apply a bandage or dressing to the area being treated, as this will increase absorption of the steroid through your skin and increase the risk of side-effects. If applying flurandrenolide to an infant on the diaper area, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants as they can also have this effect.

• Your physician will tell you how long to use the preparation for. The general rule is to continue to use it until the flare-up has gone and then to stop it. A course of treatment for 7-14 days is often sufficient. If your symptoms have not improved after this time (or if they get worse), speak again with your physician for further advice. Some people with severe skin conditions may be advised to use it for up to four weeks between courses of more potent topical steroids. Flurandrenolide should not be used for long periods of time or on large areas of the body, especially in children.

• After you finish using flurandrenolide, continue to use your moisturizer every day. This will help to prevent a further flare-up. Your physician may also prescribe a less potent steroid cream for you to use when needed.

Can flurandrenolide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with flurandrenolide. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

Although side-effects from topical corticosteroids like flurandrenolide are rare, you can reduce the risk further by applying the preparation thinly, no more than twice a day, and to the affected areas only.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your physician or pharmacist.

How to store flurandrenolide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  

Important information about all medicines