Health Library

Desonide (On the skin)

Desonide (DES-oh-nide)

Treats symptoms of atopic dermatitis and other skin problems. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Brand Name(s):

DesOwen, Tridesilon

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Foam, Gel/Jelly, 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 your skin. Do not get any of it into your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Rinse it off right away if it does get on these areas.
• 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.
• Foam:
  • Shake well before using. Turn the can upside down.
  • Do not put the foam directly on your face. Put a small amount in your hand, and then apply it to your face. For other body areas, you may apply the foam directly on the affected area.
  • Do not use the foam near heat, an open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture, break, or burn the can.
• Gel: Do not apply on your child's underarm, groin, or diaper areas.
• Lotion: Shake well before using.
• 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. Do not freeze.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Some medicines can affect how desonide works. Tell your doctor if you are also using other steroid medicines (including dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes, adrenal gland problems, eye or vision problems, or any type of skin infection.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Adrenal gland problems (including Cushing syndrome)
  • High blood sugar levels
  • Increased risk of eye problems (including cataracts or glaucoma)
• Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• If your condition becomes worse or does not improve after 2 to 4 weeks, call your doctor.
• 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
• Blurred vision or other changes in vision, eye pain
• Color changes on the skin, dark freckles, easy bruising, muscle weakness, round or puffy face
• Increased hunger, thirst, or urination, weight loss
• Severe itching, burning, or skin irritation

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

• Acne or tiny bumps on the skin, thinning of skin
• Itching or redness around your lips
• Mild burning, stinging, or irritation of your skin

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