aloe polysaccharides, hydrocortisone, and iodoquinol (topical)

What is the most important information I should know about this medicine?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is aloe polysaccharides, hydrocortisone, and iodoquinol?

Aloe polysaccharides comes from the aloe vera plant. Hydrocortisone is a steroid, and iodoquinol is an antibiotic and antifungal medicine.

Aloe polysaccharides, hydrocortisone, and iodoquinol topical (for the skin) is a combination medicine that is used to treat itching, inflammation, irritation, and infections of the skin related to a number of conditions. This includes impetigo, eczema, dermatitis, acne, infected hair follicles, scalp infections, yeast infection, and athlete's foot.

This medicine is also used on the outside of the genital or rectal area to treat irritation and inflammation caused by jock itch, vaginal yeast infection, and anal infection.

Aloe polysaccharides, hydrocortisone, and iodoquinol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using this medicine?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• diabetes;
• Cushing's syndrome (an endocrine disorder);
• tuberculosis;
• glaucoma, cataracts, or problems with your eyes; or
• a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).

How should I use this medicine?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Before applying this medicine to the genital or rectal areas, clean the area with mild soap and pat dry.

Iodoquinol absorbed through the skin can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using the medicine for at least 1 month before you have a thyroid function test.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medicine is not expected to produce life threatening symptoms. Long term use of medicine that contains a steroid such as hydrocortisone can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.

What should I avoid while using this medicine?

Avoid getting the medicine on your hair or clothing, as it may stain these surfaces.

Avoid also using other skin medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Serious side effects are unlikely when this medicine is applied to the skin, but can occur if hydrocortisone or iodiquinol are absorbed into your bloodstream.

• severe pain, burning, or irritation of treated skin;
• itching, oozing, or other signs of a new infection;
• any new redness or swelling where the medicine was applied;
• increased adrenal gland hormones --weight gain in your face and shoulders, slow wound healing, skin discoloration, thinning skin, increased body hair, tiredness, mood changes, menstrual changes, sexual changes;
• decreased adrenal gland hormones --muscle weakness, tiredness, diarrhea, nausea, menstrual changes, skin discoloration, craving salty foods, and feeling light-headed; or
• high blood sugar --increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor.

Common side effects may include:

• mild burning, itching, dryness, or irritation of the skin;
• redness or crusting around your hair follicles;
• acne, increased facial or body hair growth;
• changes in the color of treated skin; or
• stretch marks.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect aloe polysaccharides, hydrocortisone, and iodoquinol topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about aloe polysaccharides, hydrocortisone, and iodoquinol topical.