Elocon

Generic name: Mometasone furoate

What is Elocon?

Elocon is a cortisone-like steroid available in cream, ointment, and lotion form. It is used to treat certain itchy rashes and other inflammatory skin conditions.

What is the most important information I should know about Elocon?

When you use Elocon, you inevitably absorb some of the medication through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much absorption of Elocon can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body. Avoid using large amounts of Elocon over large areas, and do not cover with airtight dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages unless your doctor directs you to do so.

Elocon is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. Do not use Elocon on the face, underarms, or groin area unless advised to do so by your healthcare provider.

Use Elocon Cream only for the skin problem for which it is intended.

Stop using Elocon when the skin area returns to normal. Contact your health care provider if improvement is not seen within 2 weeks.

Ask your health care provider before using other medicine containing steroids. If you are uncertain whether your other medications contain corticosteroids, check with your pharmacist.

Caution is advised when using Elocon in children; they may be more sensitive to its effects. Elocon should not be used in children younger than 2 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed. Corticosteroids may affect growth rate in children and teenagers in some cases. They may need regular growth checks while they use Elocon.

Look at the "How should I take this medication?" section for proper procedure on how to use Elocon.

Who should not take Elocon?

Do not use Elocon if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any other steroid medication.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Elocon?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have acne-like lesions, measles, inflammation around your mouth, chickenpox, have recently had a vaccination, have any kind of skin infection or atrophy (wasting) of your skin.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Apply a thin film of Elocon to the affected skin areas once daily.

Children: Children 2 years and older: Use should be limited to the least amount necessary. Use of steroids over a long period of time may interfere with growth and development in this age group. Elocon cream and ointment may be used for children aged 2 and older, but not for more than 3 weeks.

How should I take Elocon?

Apply a thin film of the cream or ointment or a few drops of the lotion to the affected skin once a day. Massage gently until it disappears.

Elocon is for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep it out of your eyes.

For the most effective and economical use of Elocon lotion, hold the tip of the bottle very close to (but not touching) the affected skin and squeeze the bottle gently.

Once you have applied Elocon, do not cover the skin with an airtight bandage, a tight diaper, plastic pants, or any other airtight dressing unless your doctor tells you otherwise. This could encourage excessive absorption of the medication into your bloodstream.

Wash your hand after applying Elocon unless your hands are part of the treated area.

What should I avoid while taking Elocon?

Be careful not to use Elocon for a longer time than prescribed. If you do, you may disrupt your ability to make your own natural adrenal corticoid hormones (hormones secreted by the outer layer of the adrenal gland).

Elocon is for external use only. Avoid getting it into your eyes. Do not use it to treat anything other than the condition for which it was prescribed.

Do not use Elocon cream or ointment on your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor tells you to.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Elocon?

If this medication is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Always check with your doctor before combining this drug with any other medication.

What are the possible side effects of Elocon?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, notify your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Elocon.

Side effects may include: acne-like pimples, allergic skin rash, boils, burning, damaged skin, dryness, excessive hairiness, infected hair follicles, infection of the skin, irritation, itching, light colored patches on skin, prickly heat, rash around the mouth, skin atrophy and wasting, softening of the skin, stretch marks, tingling or stinging

Can I receive Elocon if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of taking Elocon during pregnancy are unknown. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. You should not use Elocon while breastfeeding, since absorbed hormone could make its way into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Elocon?

If you miss a dose of Elocon, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

How should I store Elocon?

Store Elocon between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Elocon out of the reach of children.