Halog 0.1% Cream 30gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Synthetic Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jun 1974
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Halog 0.1% Cream is a strong corticosteroid medicine applied to the skin to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. 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 treated area.
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.
If you are treating a diaper area, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from heat sources, and do not freeze.
Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
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 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 treated area.
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.
If you are treating a diaper area, avoid using tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from heat sources, and do not freeze.
Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
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.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Apply a thin layer of cream 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 cream, unless your hands are the area being treated.
- 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 cream to the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by your doctor, as these areas are more prone to side effects.
- Do not use this cream for longer than prescribed, especially on children, as prolonged use can lead to skin thinning or other serious side effects.
- Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use for diaper rash unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to three times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to three times daily.
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to three times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established, generally not recommended due to increased risk of systemic absorption.
Infant:
Not established, generally not recommended due to increased risk of systemic absorption.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area once or twice daily. Use with caution and for the shortest duration possible due to increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to three times daily, similar to adult dosing, but monitor closely for systemic effects.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No specific adjustment needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Halcinonide, a potent synthetic corticosteroid, exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions. It induces phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins, which 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 (generally low, <5% for intact skin; increases with skin barrier damage, inflammation, occlusive dressings, and large surface areas)
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemically absorbed corticosteroids are widely distributed.
ProteinBinding:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemically absorbed corticosteroids are highly protein-bound (primarily to corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin).
CnssPenetration:
Limited (minimal systemic absorption).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemic half-life of corticosteroids varies.
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (for systemically absorbed drug)
Unchanged:
Negligible (for systemically absorbed drug)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days (for anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects)
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application
DurationOfAction:
Varies, generally requires twice or thrice daily application for sustained effect.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious 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 Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
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 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
Irritation where the medication was applied
Change in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, 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 help if they bother you or do not go away:
Dry skin
Itching
* Burning
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.
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 Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
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 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
Irritation where the medication was applied
Change in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, 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 help if they bother you or do not go away:
Dry skin
Itching
* Burning
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 burning, itching, or irritation after application.
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., pus, spreading redness, fever).
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae) in the treated area.
- Changes in skin color (lightening or darkening).
- Acne-like breakouts or increased hair growth in the treated area.
- Unusual fatigue, weakness, weight gain, or swelling in the face (signs of systemic absorption, especially with prolonged or extensive 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, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Do not 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, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances.
* Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Do not 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. Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use.
When applying this medication, avoid putting it on cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. If you need to use it on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor. Do not use this medication for a longer period than prescribed by your doctor.
If the patient is a child, use this medication with caution, as children may have a higher risk of experiencing certain side effects. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during these situations to ensure the best outcome for both you and your baby.
When applying this medication, avoid putting it on cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. If you need to use it on a large area of skin, exercise caution and discuss this with your doctor. Do not use this medication for a longer period than prescribed by your doctor.
If the patient is a child, use this medication with caution, as children may have a higher risk of experiencing certain side effects. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during these situations to ensure the best outcome for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or extensive use of topical corticosteroids can lead to systemic effects such as adrenal suppression (fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure), Cushing's syndrome (weight gain, moon face, buffalo hump, high blood pressure, diabetes), hyperglycemia, and glucosuria. These are rare with appropriate use but more likely in children or with occlusive dressings.
What to Do:
If you suspect systemic overdose or experience severe side effects, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency number. For general advice, call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222).
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- None known for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
Major Interactions
- None known for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate Interactions
- None known for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
Minor Interactions
- None known for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition and extent of dermatosis
Rationale: To assess severity and guide treatment, and establish a baseline for efficacy monitoring.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus, erythema)
Frequency: Regularly, at follow-up visits (e.g., weekly to monthly depending on condition).
Target: Significant improvement in symptoms.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may indicate need for re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, burning, itching)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit and patient self-monitoring.
Target: Absence of significant adverse effects.
Action Threshold: Presence of significant or worsening local adverse effects requires discontinuation or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, adrenal suppression, hyperglycemia, glucosuria)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface area application, or occlusive dressings, particularly in children.
Target: Normal physiological parameters.
Action Threshold: Any signs of systemic effects warrant immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Burning
- Itching
- Irritation
- Dryness
- Folliculitis
- Hypertrichosis
- Acneiform eruptions
- Hypopigmentation
- Perioral dermatitis
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Maceration of the skin
- Secondary infection
- Skin atrophy
- Striae
- Miliaria
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (potential adrenal suppression)
- Weight gain, moon face, buffalo hump (potential Cushing's syndrome)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Halcinonide is Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in animals when administered systemically at relatively low doses. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity observed in animal studies with systemic corticosteroids. Topical absorption is minimal, but caution is advised.
Second Trimester:
Risk generally considered lower than first trimester, but still use with caution and only if clearly needed.
Third Trimester:
Risk generally considered lower than first trimester, but still use with caution and only if clearly needed. 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. Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. Caution should be exercised when Halcinonide Cream is administered to a nursing woman. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with limited, short-term use on small areas. Higher risk with extensive application, prolonged use, or application to areas where infant contact is likely.
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. Monitor for signs of systemic toxicity and growth retardation.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are recommended. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin and be more susceptible to local adverse effects such as skin atrophy and purpura. Monitor skin integrity closely.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Halcinonide 0.1% is a high-potency topical corticosteroid; use should generally be limited to short-term treatment of severe dermatoses.
- Avoid prolonged use, especially on the face, intertriginous areas (skin folds), and in children, due to increased risk of skin atrophy, striae, and systemic absorption.
- Educate patients on proper application technique: apply a thin film, rub in gently, and do not use occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by a physician.
- If no improvement is seen after 2 weeks, re-evaluate the diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Tapering off high-potency steroids after prolonged use may be considered to prevent rebound flares, though this is less critical for topical than systemic steroids.
Alternative Therapies
- Other high-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Clobetasol propionate, Betamethasone dipropionate augmented)
- Medium-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Triamcinolone acetonide, Mometasone furoate)
- Low-potency topical corticosteroids (e.g., Hydrocortisone)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., Tacrolimus, Pimecrolimus) for eczema, especially on sensitive areas.
- Topical phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors (e.g., Crisaborole) for eczema.
- Systemic therapies (e.g., oral corticosteroids, biologics, immunosuppressants) for severe, widespread, or refractory conditions.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$30 - $100 per 30gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (for generic), Tier 3 (for 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 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 medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.