Desonide 0.05% Cream 60gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Corticosteroid, Anti-inflammatory
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Mar 1987
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Desonide cream is a mild corticosteroid medication applied to the skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis. It works by calming down the skin's immune response.
How to Use This Medicine
Using Your Medication Correctly
To use this medication safely and effectively, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided to you and follow the instructions closely. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Applying the Medication
This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of skin. Do not take it by mouth. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, you do not need to wash that hand after application. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and make sure it is completely dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in. Unless directed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings. Also, avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. You may also want to check with your pharmacist about drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed one.
To use this medication safely and effectively, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided to you and follow the instructions closely. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Applying the Medication
This medication is for topical use only, meaning it should be applied directly to the affected area of skin. Do not take it by mouth. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, you do not need to wash that hand after application. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and make sure it is completely dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in. Unless directed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings. Also, avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. You may also want to check with your pharmacist about drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected skin area and rub it in gently until it disappears. Do not use more than directed.
- Avoid applying the cream to the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically directed by your doctor.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or tight dressings unless instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially on children, as prolonged use can lead to skin thinning or other side effects.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve after 2-4 weeks of treatment or if it worsens.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily.
dermatitis:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily.
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk)
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily. Use with caution; limit duration and area of application due to increased systemic absorption risk and potential for HPA axis suppression.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily. Use with caution; limit duration and area of application due to increased systemic absorption risk and potential for HPA axis suppression.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Desonide is a low-potency corticosteroid that exerts its anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins. These proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Not quantifiable (minimal systemic absorption)
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical systemic absorption
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration
Distribution:
Vd:
Not clinically relevant for topical use
ProteinBinding:
Not clinically relevant for topical use (if absorbed systemically, binds to plasma proteins)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (not clinically relevant for topical use)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not clinically relevant for topical use
Clearance:
Not clinically relevant for topical use
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (if absorbed systemically)
Unchanged:
Not clinically relevant for topical use
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief
PeakEffect:
Within days of consistent application
DurationOfAction:
Varies, generally requires twice to thrice daily application
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion
+ Feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Passing urine more often
+ Flushing
+ Fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or passing out
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling very tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
Skin irritation
Skin changes, such as:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Change in skin color
Changes in eyesight, eye pain, or severe eye irritation
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that concern you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Burning or stinging
Dry skin
* Signs of a common cold
Reporting Side Effects
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion
+ Feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Passing urine more often
+ Flushing
+ Fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or passing out
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling very tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
Skin irritation
Skin changes, such as:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Change in skin color
Changes in eyesight, eye pain, or severe eye irritation
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that concern you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Burning or stinging
Dry skin
* Signs of a common cold
Reporting Side Effects
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Increased irritation, burning, itching, or redness at the application site.
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., pus, spreading redness, fever).
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae) in the treated area.
- Acne-like breakouts or increased hair growth in the treated area.
- If used extensively or for prolonged periods, rare systemic effects like fatigue, weakness, nausea, or dizziness may occur (report immediately).
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
The presence of an infection at the site where this medication will be applied.
* Any areas of thin skin where you plan to apply this medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to use this medication in conjunction with your other treatments. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
The presence of an infection at the site where this medication will be applied.
* Any areas of thin skin where you plan to apply this medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to use this medication in conjunction with your other treatments. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Before using any other medications or skin products, such as soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use.
When applying this medication, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants if the treated area is in the diaper region, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body. Do not apply this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. If you need to use this medication on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor.
Adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment duration and do not use this medication for an extended period. Prolonged use may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma; therefore, consult with your doctor about this potential risk.
When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as they may be more susceptible to certain side effects. In some cases, this medication can affect growth in children and teenagers, making regular growth checks necessary. Discuss this with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication. If you are breastfeeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, be sure to wash the area thoroughly before nursing your child.
When applying this medication, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants if the treated area is in the diaper region, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body. Do not apply this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. If you need to use this medication on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor.
Adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment duration and do not use this medication for an extended period. Prolonged use may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma; therefore, consult with your doctor about this potential risk.
When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as they may be more susceptible to certain side effects. In some cases, this medication can affect growth in children and teenagers, making regular growth checks necessary. Discuss this with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication. If you are breastfeeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, be sure to wash the area thoroughly before nursing your child.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Acute overdose with topical desonide is unlikely due to minimal systemic absorption.
- Chronic overdose or misuse (e.g., applying to large body surface areas, under occlusion, or for prolonged periods) can lead to systemic effects such as Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
What to Do:
If systemic effects are suspected due to chronic misuse, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Management involves gradual withdrawal of the corticosteroid and symptomatic treatment. For acute ingestion, call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any pre-existing skin infections or atrophy.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment (e.g., weekly for initial period, then as needed)
Target: Improvement in symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms after 2-4 weeks may indicate need for re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, burning, itching)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment
Target: Absence of or minimal adverse effects
Action Threshold: Presence of significant or worsening local adverse effects may require discontinuation or change in therapy.
Signs of HPA axis suppression (e.g., fatigue, weight loss, nausea, hypotension)
Frequency: Rarely, only if extensive body surface area or prolonged use, especially in children.
Target: Normal HPA axis function
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform ACTH stimulation test or plasma cortisol levels. Discontinue or gradually withdraw if suppression is confirmed.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness, swelling, or pus (signs of infection)
- Severe burning, itching, or stinging at application site
- Thinning of skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like eruptions
- Excessive hair growth in treated areas
- Systemic symptoms like fatigue, weakness, nausea, or dizziness (rare, indicative of HPA axis suppression)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal studies have shown teratogenic effects with corticosteroids. Systemic absorption is minimal with topical use, but caution is advised.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenic effects observed in animal studies with systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is minimal but caution is advised.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution and only if clearly needed.
Third Trimester:
No specific risks identified beyond general corticosteroid concerns; avoid large areas or prolonged use.
Lactation
It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Use with caution. If used, avoid applying to the breast area to prevent direct infant exposure.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use (minimal systemic absorption), but potential for direct exposure if applied to breast.
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than mature patients because of a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Use the least potent corticosteroid for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings. Monitor for signs of systemic absorption.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. Elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could potentially increase systemic absorption, but generally, topical desonide is well-tolerated. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing skin atrophy.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Desonide is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, making it suitable for use on sensitive areas like the face, intertriginous areas, and in pediatric patients, but still with caution.
- Always apply a thin layer; using more does not increase efficacy but increases the risk of side effects.
- Educate patients on the importance of not using occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by a physician.
- For chronic conditions, consider intermittent therapy (e.g., 2 weeks on, 1 week off) to minimize the risk of skin atrophy and tachyphylaxis.
- If a skin infection is present, it should be treated concurrently with an appropriate antimicrobial agent.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, triamcinolone, fluocinolone, betamethasone, clobetasol - varying potencies)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema, especially on sensitive areas, as non-steroidal options.
- Topical phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors (e.g., crisaborole) for mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.
- Emollients and moisturizers for barrier repair and symptom relief.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $60 per 60gm tube (generic)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (for generic formulations)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.