Desonide 0.05% Lotion 59ml
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Corticosteroid, Topical
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Sep 1993
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Desonide lotion 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
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the area being treated.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication and make sure it is dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.
Shake the medication well before each use.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature and do not freeze it.
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.
Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
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 dose.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Continue using the medication as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, as directed by your doctor. Do not take it by mouth.
Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the area being treated.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication and make sure it is dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor specifically tells you to do so.
Shake the medication well before each use.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature and do not freeze it.
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.
Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
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 dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Apply a thin layer of the lotion to the affected skin area as directed by your doctor, usually two to three times a day.
- Gently rub it in completely.
- Wash your hands before and after applying the lotion, unless your hands are the treated area.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid applying the lotion to the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by your doctor, as these areas are more susceptible to side effects.
- Do not use this medication for longer than prescribed, even if your symptoms improve.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use on broken or infected skin without consulting your doctor.
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:
atopicDermatitis:
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
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily. Use with caution, especially on large surface areas or under occlusion, due to increased risk of systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two to three times daily. Use with caution, especially on large surface areas or under occlusion, due to increased risk of systemic absorption and 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 for topical application
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical application
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical application
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical application
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical application
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical application
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical application
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Desonide is a low-potency corticosteroid. It 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:
Variable; systemic absorption depends on the vehicle, integrity of the epidermal barrier, duration of use, and use of occlusive dressings. Can range from minimal to significant (e.g., 1-5% or higher).
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical application; systemic absorption is minimal and variable.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical application.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for topical application; minimal systemic distribution.
ProteinBinding:
Not available for topical; if systemically absorbed, corticosteroids bind to plasma proteins, primarily corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin.
CnssPenetration:
Limited (if any, from systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable for topical; if systemically absorbed, elimination half-life is typically short (e.g., a few hours) but biological half-life can be longer.
Clearance:
Not applicable for topical; if systemically absorbed, primarily renal.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (if systemically absorbed)
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application
DurationOfAction:
Varies with application frequency and individual response
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 may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother 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 a complete 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 may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother 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 a complete 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:
- Worsening of your skin condition or no improvement after a few days/weeks of use.
- Signs of a new skin infection (e.g., increased redness, swelling, pus, warmth, pain).
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site.
- Skin thinning, stretch marks, or changes in skin color.
- Unusual hair growth.
- Acne-like rash.
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 allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
The presence of an infection at the site where this medication will be applied.
* Any areas of thinning 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 take this medication in combination with your other medications and health issues.
Remember, do not 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 allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
The presence of an infection at the site where this medication will be applied.
* Any areas of thinning 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 take this medication in combination with your other medications and health issues.
Remember, do not 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.
Exercise caution when using this medication on a large area of skin, and discuss this with your doctor. Adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment duration, and do not use this medication for an extended period.
Be aware that this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk. When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population.
In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers. Regular growth checks may be necessary, so discuss this with your doctor. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks to you and your baby.
If you are breastfeeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, 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.
Exercise caution when using this medication on a large area of skin, and discuss this with your doctor. Adhere to your doctor's prescribed treatment duration, and do not use this medication for an extended period.
Be aware that this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk. When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population.
In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers. Regular growth checks may be necessary, so discuss this with your doctor. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks to you and your baby.
If you are breastfeeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, wash the area thoroughly before nursing your child.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially on large areas or under occlusion, can lead to systemic side effects similar to oral corticosteroids, including:
- Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, buffalo hump, weight gain, high blood pressure)
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Glucosuria (sugar in urine)
- Adrenal suppression (fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure)
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose or systemic side effects, contact your doctor or a poison control center immediately. Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison control assistance.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any signs of infection or contraindications.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Local skin reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, burning, itching)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit or as symptoms arise
Target: Absence of new or worsening reactions
Action Threshold: If severe or persistent reactions occur, discontinue use and reassess.
Signs of HPA axis suppression (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface area application, or occlusion, particularly in pediatric patients.
Target: Normal cortisol levels
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform ACTH stimulation test or plasma cortisol levels. Discontinue or reduce frequency if suppression is confirmed.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Signs of skin infection (redness, pus, warmth, pain)
- Excessive burning, itching, or irritation at application site
- Thinning of skin, easy bruising, stretch marks (striae)
- Increased hair growth at application site
- Acne-like eruptions
- Changes in skin pigmentation
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Desonide is Pregnancy Category C. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can occur, and animal studies have shown teratogenic effects with high doses of corticosteroids.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity, though risk with topical low-potency corticosteroids is considered low.
Second Trimester:
Risk of systemic absorption and potential fetal effects, though generally low with appropriate topical use.
Third Trimester:
Risk of systemic absorption and potential fetal effects, though generally low with appropriate topical use. Consider potential for HPA axis suppression in the neonate if used extensively near term.
Lactation
Desonide is considered compatible with breastfeeding (L3). Minimal systemic absorption is expected. However, caution should be exercised. Avoid applying to the breast or nipple area to prevent direct infant exposure. If applied to other areas, ensure the infant does not come into direct contact with the treated skin.
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects to the infant with appropriate use. Monitor for any unusual symptoms in the infant.
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic adverse effects, including HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome. Use the least potent corticosteroid for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings and large surface area application. Monitor growth and development.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are generally needed. However, geriatric patients may have thinner skin, which could potentially increase systemic absorption. Use with caution and monitor for skin atrophy or other local side effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Desonide is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for mild to moderate dermatoses, and often preferred for sensitive areas like the face, groin, and intertriginous areas, or for pediatric patients, due to its lower risk of skin atrophy and systemic side effects compared to higher potency agents.
- Instruct patients to apply a thin layer and rub it in completely. Over-application does not increase efficacy but increases the risk of side effects.
- Warn patients about the potential for skin thinning, stretch marks, and telangiectasias with prolonged use, especially in skin folds or on the face.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, reassess the diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Consider tapering the frequency of application (e.g., once daily, then every other day) once the condition is controlled to minimize side effects and prevent rebound flares.
Alternative Therapies
- Hydrocortisone (lower potency topical corticosteroid)
- Triamcinolone acetonide (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Fluocinolone acetonide (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Mometasone furoate (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Pimecrolimus cream (topical calcineurin inhibitor, non-steroidal)
- Tacrolimus ointment (topical calcineurin inhibitor, non-steroidal)
- Crisaborole ointment (topical phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, non-steroidal)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$50 - $150 per 59ml lotion
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (generic), Tier 3 or 4 (brand)
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 reach out to 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, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to facilitate prompt and effective treatment.