Desonide 0.05% Ointment 60gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Adrenocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Desonide 0.05% Ointment is a mild topical steroid medication used to reduce redness, itching, and swelling 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 dry it thoroughly.
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.
Unless directed by your doctor, do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area.
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 doctor or pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in a drug take-back program in your area.
Missed Dose
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 dry it thoroughly.
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.
Unless directed by your doctor, do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area.
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 doctor or pharmacist. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in a drug take-back program in your area.
Missed Dose
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
- Wash hands before and after applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area and rub in gently until it disappears. Do not use more than directed.
- 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 contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically directed by your doctor, as these areas are more sensitive to steroid side effects.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially in children, as prolonged use can lead to skin thinning or other side effects.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two or three times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two or three times daily.
dermatitis:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two or three times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (increased risk of systemic absorption due to higher surface area to body weight ratio)
Infant:
Not established (increased risk of systemic absorption due to higher surface area to body weight ratio)
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two or three times daily. Use with caution, limit duration of therapy and amount applied, and avoid occlusive dressings due to increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two or three times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical application.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Desonide is a low-potency corticosteroid. It induces phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called 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. Desonide also possesses vasoconstrictive properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Not quantifiable (varies significantly based on skin integrity, vehicle, site of application, and use of occlusive dressings). Systemic absorption is generally low but can increase.
Tmax:
Not typically measured for topical corticosteroids.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not specifically quantified for topical application; if absorbed systemically, distributed throughout the body.
ProteinBinding:
High (to plasma proteins) if absorbed systemically.
CnssPenetration:
Limited (if absorbed systemically).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical application due to variable absorption.
Clearance:
Not specifically quantified for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily renal excretion of metabolites.
Unchanged:
Minimal (if any) unchanged drug excreted.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for anti-inflammatory effects.
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Effects persist for several hours after application.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
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 fainting
+ 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 (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 unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Burning or stinging
Dry skin
* Signs of a common cold
This is not a comprehensive list of all 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.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
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 fainting
+ 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 (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 unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Burning or stinging
Dry skin
* Signs of a common cold
This is not a comprehensive list of all 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, or itching at the application site
- New or worsening skin rash
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like breakouts or increased hair growth
- Signs of skin infection (redness, swelling, pus, fever)
- Unusual fatigue, weight gain, or swelling in the face (signs of systemic absorption, rare but serious)
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 and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions.
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 and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions.
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. If you need to use this medication on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor.
Use this medication only for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended treatment period. Be aware that this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma, so it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor.
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 can affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication to both you and your baby. If you are breastfeeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, be sure to wash the area thoroughly before breastfeeding 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.
Use this medication only for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended treatment period. Be aware that this medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma, so it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor.
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 can affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication to both you and your baby. If you are breastfeeding and apply this medication to your breast or nipple, be sure to wash the area thoroughly before breastfeeding your child.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or extensive use, especially under occlusion or in children, can lead to systemic absorption and symptoms of hypercorticism (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria) or adrenal suppression.
- Symptoms may include weight gain, moon face, buffalo hump, thinning skin, easy bruising, muscle weakness, fatigue, and high blood sugar.
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose or significant systemic absorption, contact your doctor or poison control center immediately. Call 1-800-222-1222. Treatment is supportive and may involve gradual withdrawal of the steroid.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition (type of lesion, extent, location)
Rationale: To assess baseline severity and guide treatment.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment (e.g., weekly to bi-weekly initially, then as needed)
Target: Improvement in symptoms and lesion appearance.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may require re-evaluation of diagnosis or treatment.
Local adverse effects (skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, perioral dermatitis, hypopigmentation)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment, especially with prolonged use.
Target: Absence of new or worsening skin changes.
Action Threshold: Development of significant local adverse effects may require discontinuation or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive or prolonged use, or in pediatric patients.
Target: Normal clinical findings and laboratory values (e.g., cortisol levels if adrenal suppression is suspected).
Action Threshold: Any signs of systemic effects warrant immediate medical evaluation and potential discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness, itching, or irritation at application site
- Development of skin thinning, stretch marks, or bruising
- Increased hair growth (hypertrichosis)
- Acne-like breakouts
- Signs of skin infection (pus, fever, increased pain)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (potential adrenal suppression)
- Increased thirst or urination (potential hyperglycemia)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can occur.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Limited data, but generally considered low risk with appropriate use of low-potency topical steroids.
Second Trimester:
Low risk with appropriate use; monitor for signs of systemic absorption.
Third Trimester:
Low risk with appropriate use; monitor for signs of systemic absorption.
Lactation
Use with caution. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use, but monitor infant for any unusual effects. Avoid direct contact with infant's skin.
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than mature adults due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Limit the amount applied and duration of therapy. Avoid occlusive dressings. Not recommended for routine use in neonates and infants.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are necessary. However, geriatric patients may have thinner skin, which could potentially increase systemic absorption or local adverse effects. Monitor for skin fragility and other local side effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Desonide is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, making it suitable for use on sensitive areas like the face, groin, and intertriginous areas, and for mild to moderate inflammatory dermatoses.
- It is often preferred for pediatric patients when a corticosteroid is necessary, due to its lower potency, but caution regarding systemic absorption is still paramount.
- Ointment formulations are generally more potent and occlusive than creams or lotions, providing better penetration and hydration, making them suitable for dry, scaly lesions.
- Educate patients on the 'less is more' principle for topical steroids: apply a thin film, just enough to cover the affected area.
- Prolonged use, especially on large surface areas or under occlusion, can lead to local side effects (skin atrophy, striae) and, rarely, systemic effects (HPA axis suppression).
Alternative Therapies
- Other low-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone 1%)
- Medium-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% cream/ointment, Mometasone furoate 0.1% cream/ointment) for more severe cases or different body areas.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus ointment, Pimecrolimus cream) for steroid-sparing therapy, especially on the face or for long-term management.
- Emollients and moisturizers (as primary therapy for dry skin or adjunct to reduce steroid use).
- Antihistamines (oral) for pruritus.
- Systemic therapies (e.g., oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants) for severe, widespread, or refractory conditions.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Typically $20 - $100+ per 60gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is 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 it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.