Health Library

Mometasone (On the skin)

Mometasone Furoate (moe-MET-a-sone FURE-oh-ate)

Relieves redness, swelling, itching, or skin rash caused by skin problems. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Liquid, Lotion, Ointment

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine is for use only on the skin. Do not use this medicine on the face, underarms, diaper area, or groin area unless your doctor tells you to.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Apply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, diabetes, Cushing syndrome, or any type of skin infection.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Adrenal gland problems, including Cushing syndrome
  • High blood sugar
  • Eye or vision problems (including cataracts, glaucoma)
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• If your symptoms do not improve within 2 weeks of treatment, or if they get worse, check with your doctor.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, or pus on treated skin areas
• Blurred vision or other changes in vision, eye pain
• Dark freckles, skin color changes, coldness, weakness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, weight loss
• Redness, swelling, or pus on the site of application
• Round, puffy face
• Severe itching, burning, or skin irritation

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Acne-like skin changes
• Numbness, tingling, or stinging at the application site

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024