Desoximetasone 0.05% Ointment 100gm
It is used to treat skin irritation.It is used to treat skin rashes.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Synthetic Adrenocorticosteroid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Sep 1980
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Desoximetasone ointment is a strong medicine applied to the skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids.
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 your skin. Do not take it by mouth. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning. Do not apply it to the vagina.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, do not wash your hand after applying the medication. 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 area and gently rub it in.
Unless directed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. 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 a drug take-back program 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 dose.
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 your skin. Do not take it by mouth. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning. Do not apply it to the vagina.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, do not wash your hand after applying the medication. 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 area and gently rub it in.
Unless directed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. 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 a drug take-back program 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 dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash your hands before and after applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless specifically told to by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid applying to the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by your doctor, as these areas are more sensitive to side effects.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially on children, as prolonged use can lead to skin thinning or other side effects.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Crm 15gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Crm 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Cream 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Gel 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Gel 15gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Cream 15gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Cream 100gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Crm 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Cream 100gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Ointment 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Crm 15gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Ointment 100gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Ointment 15gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Ointment 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.05% Cream 60gm
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Spray 100ml
- Desoximetasone 0.25% Ointment 100gm
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two times daily.
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk)
Infant:
Not established (use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk)
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas once or twice daily, for short periods only. Avoid use on large surface areas or under occlusive dressings due to increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected areas two 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 (minimal systemic absorption)
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
Desoximetasone is a synthetic corticosteroid that possesses anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. The exact mechanism of action of topical corticosteroids is unclear. However, they are thought to act by the induction of 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.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Varies (dependent on vehicle, integrity of epidermal barrier, site of application, and use of occlusive dressings)
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical application (systemic absorption is minimal)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not available (minimal systemic distribution)
ProteinBinding:
Not available (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not precisely determined for topical application (systemic half-life of corticosteroids varies)
Clearance:
Not precisely determined for topical application
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (for systemically absorbed drug and metabolites)
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days (clinical improvement)
PeakEffect:
Within days to weeks of consistent use
DurationOfAction:
Varies, typically requires twice-daily application for sustained effect
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
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 medical help right away:
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 a weak adrenal gland, including:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling extremely tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, such as:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
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
Skin changes, such as:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Thinning of the skin
Changes in eyesight
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 or seek medical help:
Burning, itching, dryness, or other irritation where the medication was applied
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. 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 medical help right away:
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 a weak adrenal gland, including:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling extremely tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, such as:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
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
Skin changes, such as:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Thinning of the skin
Changes in eyesight
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 or seek medical help:
Burning, itching, dryness, or other irritation where the medication was applied
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. 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 skin condition
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., pus, increased pain, fever)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae)
- Unusual hair growth
- Acne or rash around the mouth (perioral dermatitis)
- Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., unusual weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, muscle weakness, mood changes, fatigue)
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.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with other drugs or health conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose 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 symptoms you experienced.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with other drugs or health conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken with all your current medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose 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.
When applying this medication to the diaper area, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use.
Do not apply this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. Exercise caution when applying it to large areas of skin or near open wounds, and discuss any concerns 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. Discuss this potential risk with your doctor.
In children and teenagers, this medication may affect growth in some cases. Regular growth checks may be necessary, so consult with your doctor to monitor growth and development.
When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this age group.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks to you and your baby.
If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying this medication to your chest. Instead, consult with your doctor for guidance on safe use.
When applying this medication to the diaper area, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use.
Do not apply this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. Exercise caution when applying it to large areas of skin or near open wounds, and discuss any concerns 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. Discuss this potential risk with your doctor.
In children and teenagers, this medication may affect growth in some cases. Regular growth checks may be necessary, so consult with your doctor to monitor growth and development.
When using this medication in children, exercise caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in this age group.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks to you and your baby.
If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying this medication to your chest. Instead, consult with your doctor for guidance on safe use.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use can lead to systemic effects of corticosteroids, including Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia), adrenal suppression, and growth retardation in children.
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 areas for treatment.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Clinical response
Frequency: Regularly during treatment (e.g., weekly to bi-weekly initially, then as needed)
Target: Reduction in inflammation, erythema, pruritus, and scaling
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of condition may require re-evaluation of diagnosis or treatment plan. Signs of adverse effects (e.g., skin atrophy, striae, systemic effects) require discontinuation or reduction in potency/frequency.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings
Target: Absence of signs/symptoms
Action Threshold: Presence of symptoms (e.g., weight gain, moon face, hypertension, hyperglycemia, fatigue) requires immediate medical evaluation and discontinuation of therapy.
Symptom Monitoring
- Improvement in redness
- Reduction in itching
- Decrease in swelling
- Healing of skin lesions
- Signs of skin thinning (atrophy)
- Development of striae (stretch marks)
- Acneiform eruptions
- Perioral dermatitis
- Secondary infection
- Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., unusual weight gain, fatigue, muscle weakness, mood changes, increased thirst/urination)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
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 teratogenicity, though risk with topical use is low.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution.
Third Trimester:
No specific risks identified beyond general corticosteroid effects; 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 infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use; potential for growth suppression or other adverse effects if significant systemic absorption occurs in the infant via breast milk or direct contact.
Pediatric Use
Children are more susceptible to systemic toxicity from topical corticosteroids due to their larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Use the least potent effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings. Monitor for signs of adrenal suppression and growth retardation.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could potentially increase systemic absorption. Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Desoximetasone is a high-potency topical corticosteroid; use it judiciously and for short durations, especially on sensitive areas or in children.
- Educate patients on proper application technique: a thin film, gently rubbed in, avoiding excessive amounts.
- Warn patients about the potential for skin atrophy, striae, and telangiectasias with prolonged use, particularly on the face or intertriginous areas.
- Consider step-down therapy to a lower potency corticosteroid or non-steroidal agent once the acute inflammation is controlled.
- Systemic absorption, though rare with proper topical use, can lead to adrenal suppression, especially in children or with extensive/occlusive application.
Alternative Therapies
- Other high-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Clobetasol propionate, Halobetasol propionate)
- Medium-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Triamcinolone acetonide, Betamethasone valerate)
- Low-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus) for eczema
- Vitamin D analogs (e.g., Calcipotriene) for psoriasis
- Emollients and moisturizers for barrier repair
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$50 - $150 per 100gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (Generic)
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 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 details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.