Halog 0.1% Ointment 60gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1975
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Halog Ointment 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 helps calm down your skin's reaction.
How to Use This Medicine
Using Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, 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 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 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 skin and gently rub it in.
Important Application Instructions
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.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, away from heat sources. Do not freeze the medication. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
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 continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To get the most benefit from your medication, 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 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 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 skin and gently rub it in.
Important Application Instructions
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.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature, away from heat sources. Do not freeze the medication. Keep all medications in a safe place, out of the reach of children and pets.
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 continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply two doses at the same time or extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected skin area as directed by your doctor, usually two to three times a day.
- Gently rub it in until it disappears.
- Wash your hands before and after applying the ointment, unless your hands are the area being treated.
- Do not use more than the prescribed amount or apply it more often than directed.
- Do not use this medicine on your face, groin, or armpits unless specifically told to by your doctor.
- Avoid getting the ointment in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If it gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages, plastic wrap, or other occlusive dressings unless your doctor tells you to. Covering the area can increase absorption and side effects.
- Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed, especially in children, as it can lead to serious side effects.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve after 2-4 weeks of treatment or if it worsens.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area two to three times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area two to three times daily.
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area two to three times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (increased risk of systemic absorption)
Infant:
Not established (increased risk of systemic absorption)
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected skin area two to three times 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 skin area two to three times daily.
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.
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, a synthetic corticosteroid, exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through its 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 (depends on skin integrity, area, duration of exposure, use of occlusive dressings). Systemic absorption is generally low but can increase significantly with prolonged use, large surface areas, or compromised skin barrier.
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application due to variable absorption.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ProteinBinding:
Not well-defined for topical application, but generally binds to plasma proteins if systemically absorbed.
CnssPenetration:
Limited (primarily local action, minimal CNS penetration with typical topical use).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemic half-life of corticosteroids varies.
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily renal (if systemically absorbed).
Unchanged:
Not well-defined for topical application.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours to days for noticeable anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects.
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies; effects persist as long as applied, with residual effects for a period after discontinuation.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when 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 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 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:
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 when 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 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 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:
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 redness, burning, itching, or irritation at the application site.
- Signs of skin infection (pus, spreading redness, fever).
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, stretch marks (striae), or changes in skin color.
- Acne-like breakouts or increased hair growth in the treated area.
- Unusual weight gain, swelling in the face (moon face), or fatigue (signs of systemic absorption, especially in children or with prolonged/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, 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 and pharmacist identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any existing health problems, 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 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 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 and pharmacist identify potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any existing health problems, 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 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. 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 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 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 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 pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use of topical corticosteroids can lead to systemic effects due to absorption, including: Adrenal suppression (fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure), Cushing's syndrome (moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity, thin skin, easy bruising, hyperglycemia, hypertension), growth retardation in children.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. If acute adrenal insufficiency is suspected, immediate medical attention is required. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) or seek emergency medical care.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment (type, severity, location of dermatosis)
Rationale: To establish baseline for treatment efficacy and identify potential contraindications (e.g., active infection).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus, lesion size)
Frequency: Weekly to bi-weekly during initial treatment, then as needed.
Target: Improvement in symptoms and lesion appearance.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of condition after 2-4 weeks may indicate need for re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse effects (skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, perioral dermatitis, hypertrichosis, hypopigmentation)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit, especially with prolonged use.
Target: Absence of or minimal adverse effects.
Action Threshold: Presence of significant adverse effects warrants reduction in frequency, potency, or discontinuation.
Signs of infection (secondary bacterial or fungal)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit.
Target: Absence of infection.
Action Threshold: Presence of infection requires appropriate antimicrobial treatment and re-evaluation of corticosteroid use.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Rarely needed for typical topical use. Consider if large areas, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings are employed, especially in children.
Target: Normal physiological parameters.
Action Threshold: Suspicion of systemic effects warrants immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation (e.g., morning cortisol levels).
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 weight gain
- Moon face
- Fatigue (signs of adrenal suppression)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Halcinonide is Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large areas, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity with high doses of systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is generally low but caution is advised.
Second Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth restriction with high doses of systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is generally low but caution is advised.
Third Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth restriction and adrenal suppression in the neonate with high doses of systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is generally low but caution is advised.
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 proper use due to minimal systemic absorption. Monitor infant for any unusual signs.
Pediatric Use
Children are more susceptible to systemic toxicity from topical corticosteroids due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio and immature skin barrier. Use the least potent corticosteroid for the shortest duration possible. Monitor for signs of adrenal suppression (e.g., growth retardation, delayed weight gain) and Cushing's syndrome.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are typically needed. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local adverse effects like skin atrophy and purpura. Use with caution and monitor skin integrity.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Halog (halcinonide) is a high-potency topical corticosteroid. It should be used for short-term treatment of severe inflammatory dermatoses.
- Avoid prolonged use, especially on the face, intertriginous areas (skin folds), or in children, due to increased risk of skin atrophy, striae, and systemic absorption.
- Patients should be instructed on the proper application technique: apply a thin film and rub in gently; do not use occlusive dressings unless specifically directed by a physician.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, the diagnosis should be re-evaluated.
- Tapering of high-potency topical steroids may be necessary after prolonged use to prevent rebound flares.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., clobetasol, betamethasone, fluocinonide, triamcinolone, hydrocortisone)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema
- Vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriene) for psoriasis
- Topical retinoids (e.g., tazarotene) for psoriasis
- Emollients and moisturizers for barrier repair
- Systemic therapies (e.g., biologics, methotrexate, cyclosporine) for severe, widespread disease
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$50 - $150 per 60gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 2 or Tier 3 (often covered by most prescription plans, especially 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 happened.