Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may cause unwanted side effects or skin irritation.

This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it into your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or burns. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away with water.

This medicine should come with a patient information leaflet. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

This medicine should only be used for skin conditions that your doctor is treating. Check with your doctor before using it for other conditions, especially if you think that a skin infection may be present. This medicine should not be used to treat certain kinds of skin infections or conditions, such as severe burns.

Do not use the topical gel on the groin or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor, and do not use this form for more than 4 weeks.

To use the cream, gel, lotion, or ointment:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • Apply a thin layer of this medicine to the affected area of the skin. Rub it in gently.
  • With the lotion, protect the skin from water, clothing, or anything that causes rubbing until the medicine has dried. Also, shake the lotion well before using it.
  • Do not bandage or otherwise wrap the skin being treated unless directed to do so by your doctor.
  • If the medicine is applied to the diaper area of an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants unless directed to do so by your doctor.

To use the foam:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • Shake the can well before using it.
  • Do not put the foam directly onto your face. Turn the can upside down and place a small amount of medicine in your hands. Massage it gently into the affected areas of the face until the medicine has dried. For areas other than the face, you may put it directly on the affected area.
  • Do not wash or rinse the treated area right after applying the medicine.
  • Do not bandage or otherwise wrap the skin being treated unless directed to do so by your doctor.
  • Do not use this medicine near heat, an open flame, or while smoking.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For atopic dermatitis:
    • For topical dosage forms (foam or gel):
      • Adults—Apply a thin layer to the affected area of the skin 2 times a day.
      • Children 3 months of age and older—Apply a thin layer to the affected area of the skin 2 times a day.
      • Children younger than 3 months of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For redness, itching, and swelling of the skin:
    • For topical dosage forms (cream, ointment, or lotion):
      • Adults—Apply to the affected area of the skin 2 or 3 times a day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Store the foam can at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not keep this medicine inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat. Do not poke holes in the canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty.

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Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2024

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