Halog 0.1% Cream 60gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Corticosteroid, Topical
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1975
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Halog Cream contains a strong medicine called a corticosteroid. It works by reducing redness, swelling, and itching caused by certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It's for external use only and should be applied thinly to the affected skin.
How to Use This Medicine
Using Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, use it exactly as directed by your doctor. Carefully read all the information provided with your medication and follow the instructions closely. Continue using the medication as instructed, 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. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, you do not need to wash that hand after application. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and make sure it is completely dry. Then, apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Unless directed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings. 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 your body.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, away from heat sources, and do not freeze it. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
What to Do If You Miss 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 scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To get the most benefit from your medication, use it exactly as directed by your doctor. Carefully read all the information provided with your medication and follow the instructions closely. Continue using the medication as instructed, 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. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause irritation or burning.
Before applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. If the affected area is on your hand, you do not need to wash that hand after application. Clean the affected area before applying the medication and make sure it is completely dry. Then, apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Unless directed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings. 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 your body.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, away from heat sources, and do not freeze it. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
What to Do If You Miss 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 scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing 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 cream.
- Apply a thin layer only to the affected skin areas as directed by your doctor.
- Do not use more than the prescribed amount or for longer than recommended.
- Avoid applying to the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Do not use with occlusive dressings (e.g., plastic wrap) unless directed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use on broken or infected skin without medical advice.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas two to three times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis_eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas two to three times daily. Rub in gently and completely. Discontinue when control is achieved. Treatment beyond 2 weeks is generally not recommended.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established, use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas once daily. Use the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Limit treatment to the smallest area and shortest duration possible. Not recommended for children under 12 years of age without careful consideration of risk/benefit.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin areas two to three times daily. Limit treatment duration and area.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use, as systemic absorption is minimal.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Halcinonide is a high-potency synthetic 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 occurs, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, occlusive dressings, or compromised skin barrier. Bioavailability is generally low for topical application.
Tmax:
Not precisely quantified for topical application; systemic effects can manifest over days to weeks with chronic use.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not precisely quantified for topical application; systemically absorbed corticosteroids are widely distributed.
ProteinBinding:
Systemically absorbed corticosteroids are extensively bound to plasma proteins, primarily corticosteroid-binding globulin (transcortin) and albumin.
CnssPenetration:
Limited for topical application; systemic absorption can lead to CNS effects.
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not precisely quantified for topical application; systemic half-life of corticosteroids varies.
Clearance:
Not precisely quantified for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Metabolites are primarily excreted by the kidneys, with some biliary excretion.
Unchanged:
Minimal unchanged drug excreted.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects.
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks with consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies; effects persist as long as applied, but prolonged use can lead to tachyphylaxis and adverse effects.
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 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 at the site of application
Change in skin color
Thinning of the skin
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 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 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 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 at the site of application
Change in skin color
Thinning of the skin
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 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:
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site
- New or worsening skin infection (e.g., pus, redness, warmth)
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks
- Acne-like eruptions or increased hair growth
- Blurred vision or eye pain (if applied near eyes)
- Unexplained weight gain, swelling in face/neck, or unusual fatigue (signs of systemic absorption)
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. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with other medical 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 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 symptoms you experienced.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with other medical 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 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 products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use.
Avoid applying this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. When using this medication 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 you are a parent or caregiver of a child taking this medication, use it 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 pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Avoid applying this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. When using this medication 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 you are a parent or caregiver of a child taking this medication, use it 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 pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use can lead to systemic effects such as Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, striae), hyperglycemia, glucosuria, and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
- Symptoms of HPA axis suppression include fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure.
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
Contraindicated Interactions
- Not available
Major Interactions
- Not available
Moderate Interactions
- Not available
Minor Interactions
- Not available
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify areas for application.
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 treatment.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings.
Target: Normal adrenal function, blood glucose.
Action Threshold: If signs of systemic absorption appear, discontinue use gradually and consult endocrinologist.
Intraocular pressure (if applied near eyes)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use.
Target: Normal IOP.
Action Threshold: If elevated IOP, consult ophthalmologist.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- New skin lesions (e.g., acne, folliculitis)
- Skin thinning or bruising
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Increased hair growth at application site
- Changes in skin color (hypopigmentation)
- Blurred vision or eye pain
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Increased thirst or urination
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Category C. Systemic absorption can occur.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity with high doses of corticosteroids in animal studies; human data limited for topical.
Second Trimester:
Risk of HPA axis suppression in the fetus with prolonged or extensive use.
Third Trimester:
Risk of HPA axis suppression in the fetus with prolonged or extensive use; potential for low birth weight.
Lactation
Caution should be exercised when Halog Cream is administered to a nursing woman. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. L3 (Moderately Safe).
Infant Risk:
Potential for growth retardation, interference with endogenous corticosteroid production, or other adverse effects if significant systemic absorption occurs in the mother and drug is transferred to milk. Avoid applying to breast area to prevent direct infant exposure.
Pediatric Use
Children 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. Not recommended for children under 12 years of age without careful consideration of risk/benefit.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are typically needed. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin and be more susceptible to local adverse effects like skin atrophy and purpura. Use with caution and monitor for adverse reactions.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Halcinonide 0.1% is a high-potency topical corticosteroid; reserve for severe dermatoses and limit duration of use to minimize side effects.
- Avoid prolonged use on the face, groin, or axillae due to increased risk of skin atrophy, telangiectasias, and striae.
- Patients should be instructed on the proper application technique: apply a thin film and rub in gently.
- Warn patients about the potential for rebound flare-ups if the medication is stopped abruptly after prolonged use.
- Consider alternative, lower-potency corticosteroids for maintenance therapy or less severe conditions.
- Educate patients on signs of local and systemic side effects and when to contact their healthcare provider.
Alternative Therapies
- Clobetasol propionate (very high potency)
- Betamethasone dipropionate (high potency)
- Fluocinonide (high potency)
- Triamcinolone acetonide (medium potency)
- Hydrocortisone (low potency)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$150 - $300 per 60gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 2 or 3 (for brand), Tier 1 (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 is a good idea to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, do not 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 details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.