Health Library

Fluticasone (On the skin)

Fluticasone Propionate (floo-TIK-a-sone PROE-pee-oh-nate)

Treats many skin disorders. Also relieves pain, itching, and swelling caused by skin diseases. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Brand Name(s):

Beser, Cutivate

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Lotion, Ointment

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it near your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or burns. Do not apply the ointment to your nipple or areola, if you are breastfeeding. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Do not use this medicine on the face, groin, or underarms unless your doctor says it is okay. cream or lotion should not be used in the diaper area unless directed by your doctor.
• Wash your hands before and after you apply the medicine, unless you are treating the skin on your hands.
• 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. You may store the ointment at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, diabetes, adrenal gland problems (including Cushing syndrome), eye or vision problems, or any type of skin infection.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Adrenal or pituitary gland problems
  • Serious skin reactions, which may occur if you cover the treated skin area or use the medicine for a long time
  • Eye or vision problems (including cataracts, glaucoma)
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• 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 the treated skin areas
• Blurred vision or other changes in vision, eye pain
• Color changes on the skin, dark freckles, easy bruising, muscle weakness, round, puffy face
• Severe skin itching, burning, redness, peeling, or pain
• Thinning of the skin
• Weight gain around your neck, upper back, breast, face, or waist

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

• Acne or tiny pimples
• Increased hair growth on the forehead, back, arms, and legs
• Lightheadedness
• Mild burning, dryness, irritation, redness, or itching

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