Halcinonide Topical

WHY is this medicine prescribed?

Halcinonide topical is used to treat the itching, redness, dryness, crusting, scaling, inflammation, and discomfort of various skin conditions, including psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some areas of the body) and eczema (a skin disease that causes the skin to be dry and itchy and to sometimes develop red, scaly rashes). Halcinonide is in a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works by activating natural substances in the skin to reduce swelling, redness, and itching.

Are there OTHER USES for this medicine?

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

HOW should this medicine be used?

Halcinonide comes in an ointment and cream to apply to the skin. It is usually applied two or three times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use halcinonide exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not apply it to other areas of your body or use it to treat other skin conditions unless directed to do so by your doctor.

To use halcinonide topical, apply a small amount of ointment or cream to cover the affected area of skin with a thin film and rub it in gently.

This medication is only for use on the skin. Do not let halcinonide topical get into your eyes or mouth and do not swallow it. Avoid use in the genital or rectal areas, and in skin creases and armpits unless directed by your doctor.

If you are using halcinonide on a child's diaper area, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. Such use may increase side effects.

Do not wrap or bandage the treated area unless your doctor tells you that you should. Such use may increase side effects.

What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?

Before using halcinonide topical,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to halcinonide, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in halcinonide topical products. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.

• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take..

• tell your doctor if you have an infection or any other skin problems or have or have ever had diabetes or Cushing's syndrome (an abnormal condition that is caused by excess hormones [corticosteroids]).

• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using halcinonide, call your doctor.

What should I do IF I FORGET to take a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?

Halcinonide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• burning, itching, irritation, redness, drying, or cracking of the skin
• acne
• changes in skin color
• tiny red bumps or rash around the mouth
• unwanted hair growth
• small white or red bumps on the skin
• bruising or shiny skin
• thin, fragile, or dry skin

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• severe rash
• redness, swelling, oozing pus or other signs of skin infection in the place where you applied halcinonide

Children who use halcinonide topical may have an increased risk of side effects including slowed growth and delayed weight gain. Talk to your doctor about the risks of applying medication to your child's skin.

Halcinonide may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

What should I know about STORAGE and DISPOSAL of this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org

What should I do in case of OVERDOSE?

If someone swallows halcinonide topical, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to halcinonide.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

^¶ This branded product is no longer on the market. Generic alternatives may be available.