Desowen 0.05% Ointment 60gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Corticosteroid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1978
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Desonide is a mild corticosteroid cream or ointment used on the skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis. It works by calming down the immune response in the skin.
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 your hands before and after applying the medication.
- Apply a thin film to the affected skin area, gently rubbing it in completely.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other dressings unless directed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption.
- Avoid applying to the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially on children or on large areas of the body.
- Inform your doctor if your condition worsens or does not improve after 2 weeks of treatment.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas two or three times daily, depending on the severity of the condition.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2-3 times daily.
dermatitis:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2-3 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 skin areas two or three times daily. Use with caution and for the shortest duration possible due to increased systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression risk.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas two or three times daily. Use with caution and for the shortest duration possible due to increased systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression risk.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas two or 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. Like other corticosteroids, it acts 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. Corticosteroids also possess anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Variable (depends on vehicle, skin integrity, site of application, occlusion)
Tmax:
Not precisely defined for topical application; systemic absorption is minimal but can occur.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not precisely defined for topical application; systemically absorbed corticosteroids are bound to plasma proteins.
ProteinBinding:
Variable (systemically absorbed corticosteroids are bound to plasma proteins, primarily corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (systemic absorption is generally low)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not precisely defined for topical application; systemically absorbed corticosteroids have variable half-lives.
Clearance:
Not precisely defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (primarily as inactive metabolites)
Unchanged:
Minimal
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief.
PeakEffect:
Within days of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies with application frequency and individual response.
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 immediately or seek emergency 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
+ Difficulty 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
+ Frequent urination
+ Flushing
+ Rapid breathing
+ Fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Muscle weakness
+ Extreme fatigue
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or abdomen
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow wound healing
Skin irritation
Skin changes, such as:
+ Acne
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow wound healing
+ Excessive hair growth
Changes in skin color
Vision changes, eye pain, or severe eye irritation
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning or stinging sensations
Dry skin
* Symptoms of a common cold
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult 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 immediately or seek emergency 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
+ Difficulty 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
+ Frequent urination
+ Flushing
+ Rapid breathing
+ Fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Muscle weakness
+ Extreme fatigue
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or abdomen
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow wound healing
Skin irritation
Skin changes, such as:
+ Acne
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow wound healing
+ Excessive hair growth
Changes in skin color
Vision changes, eye pain, or severe eye irritation
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning or stinging sensations
Dry skin
* Symptoms of a common cold
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, consult 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.
- Signs of skin infection (pus, spreading redness, fever).
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks.
- Acne-like breakouts or hair bumps (folliculitis).
- Unusual hair growth.
- Any signs of systemic side effects like unexplained weight gain, swelling in the face, or unusual fatigue (rare with proper use).
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 conjunction with your other medications and health issues.
Remember, do not start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting 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 conjunction with your other medications and health issues.
Remember, do not start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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, including 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 the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Discuss this with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult with 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 the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this population. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Discuss this with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult with 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:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially over large surface areas or under occlusion, can lead to systemic absorption and symptoms of hypercorticism (Cushing's syndrome), including: moon face, central obesity, striae, muscle weakness, hyperglycemia, and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) for advice.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any signs of infection or skin breakdown.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy of treatment (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly)
Target: Improvement in symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms warrants re-evaluation.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, burning, itching)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment
Target: Absence of severe reactions
Action Threshold: Presence of significant adverse reactions warrants discontinuation or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, HPA axis suppression) - especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusion
Frequency: Periodically, particularly in pediatric patients or with extensive use
Target: Normal endocrine function
Action Threshold: Symptoms or lab abnormalities (e.g., low morning cortisol) warrant investigation and potential discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness, swelling, or pain (signs of infection)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at application site
- Thinning of skin, easy bruising, stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like eruptions or folliculitis
- Unusual hair growth
- Changes in vision (if applied near eyes)
- Signs of systemic absorption: weight gain, moon face, fatigue, muscle weakness, slow wound healing (rare with appropriate topical use)
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. Animal studies have shown teratogenic effects with corticosteroids.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenic effects, though systemic absorption from topical use is generally low.
Second Trimester:
Potential for fetal growth restriction or other adverse effects with high doses or prolonged use.
Third Trimester:
Potential for HPA axis suppression in the neonate if used extensively near term.
Lactation
It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Caution should be exercised when Desonide is administered to a nursing woman. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate topical use, but monitor infant for potential adverse effects (e.g., growth suppression) if extensive maternal use.
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 prolonged use and occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could potentially increase systemic absorption. Monitor for adverse skin reactions and systemic effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Desonide is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for mild to moderate inflammatory dermatoses, especially on sensitive areas like the face, groin, and intertriginous areas where higher potency steroids might cause more side effects.
- Educate patients on proper application technique: a thin film is sufficient; more is not better and increases risk of side effects.
- Avoid prolonged continuous use, especially in children, to minimize the risk of HPA axis suppression and local skin atrophy.
- If no improvement is seen after 2 weeks, re-evaluate the diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Ointment formulations are generally more potent and occlusive than creams or gels, and are preferred for dry, scaly lesions. Creams are better for weeping or moist lesions.
- Do not use on infected skin without concomitant antimicrobial therapy.
Alternative Therapies
- Hydrocortisone (lower potency topical corticosteroid)
- Triamcinolone acetonide (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Fluocinolone acetonide (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Pimecrolimus cream (non-steroidal calcineurin inhibitor)
- Tacrolimus ointment (non-steroidal calcineurin inhibitor)
- Crisaborole ointment (PDE4 inhibitor)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely by pharmacy and formulation (e.g., $30-$150) per 60gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (for 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 your 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.