This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Cutivate Consumer Information
CUTIVATE
Generic Name: fluticasone topical (flew TIK a sone)
Brand Names: Cutivate
What is the most important information I should know about fluticasone topical?
- Do not use plastic coverings, bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area (occlusive dressings) unless your doctor directs you to do so. The use of occlusive dressings will greatly increase the amount of drug your body absorbs. If you do use an occlusive dressing, do not use it for more than 12 hours a day.
- Do not use fluticasone topical to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be very dangerous.
What is fluticasone topical?
- Fluticasone is a topical steroid. It reduces or inhibits the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.
- Fluticasone is used to treat the inflammation caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis.
- Fluticasone topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not use fluticasone topical?
- Return to your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse. Fluticasone topical alone will not treat your condition if it is a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection.
- Fluticasone topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether fluticasone topical will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. If it is necessary to use fluticasone during pregnancy, the smallest amount possible should be applied, for the shortest time necessary to treat the condition, under the supervision of a doctor.
- It is also not known whether fluticasone passes into breast milk. Do not use fluticasone topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use fluticasone topical?
- Apply the cream or ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Wash your hands before and after each application, unless you are using fluticasone topical to treat a hand condition.
- Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it into your skin gently.
- Use caution on areas where your skin creases, such as armpits, knees, and elbows. These areas may absorb more medication. Also, avoid your eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
- If you need to protect the area, it can be covered with a breathable cotton gauze dressing. Avoid using plastic, occlusive dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area.
- Do not use fluticasone topical to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be very dangerous.
- Store fluticasone topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
- An overdose of fluticasone topical is not expected. If the cream or ointment is ingested, or if a large amount of cream is used over a large area and you are experiencing side effects, call an emergency room or a poison control left near you.
What should I avoid while using fluticasone topical?
- Do not use plastic coverings, bandages, or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area (occlusive dressings) unless your doctor directs you to do so. The use of occlusive dressings will greatly increase the amount of drug your body absorbs. If you do use an occlusive dressing, do not use it for more than 12 hours a day.
- Avoid using other topical medications, harsh or abrasive soaps, or cosmetics on the affected area without the approval of your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.