Desonide gel is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in patients 3 months of age and older.
Other Topical corticosteroids
Desonide gel contains Desonide which is a synthetic nonfluorinated corticosteroid for topical dermatologic use. Topical corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. Corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2. Once absorbed through the skin, topical corticosteroids are handled through pharmacokinetic pathways similar to systemically administered corticosteroids.
Topical/Cutaneous- Corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses: Adult: As 0.05% cream, oint, or lotion: Apply sparingly onto the affected areas 2-4 times daily until optimal response is achieved. Max duration of therapy: 8 wk. Child: ? 2 yr Same as adult dose. Atopic dermatitis: Adult: As 0.05% foam or gel: Apply to affected area(s) bid. Max duration of therapy: 4 wk. Child: ?3 mth Same as adult dose.
Desonide gel is contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the preparation. Monitor for hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression thru ACTH stimulation test, plasma cortisol test and urinary free cortisol test; signs and symptoms of bacterial or fungal infection.
The most common local side effects are burning, rash and pruritus at application site. The following additional local side effects have been reported infrequently with topical corticosteroids. They may occur more frequently with the use of occlusive dressings, especially with higher potency corticosteroids: folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae, and miliaria.
Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Desonide gel should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Desonide gel is administered to a nursing woman.
Topically applied Desonide gel can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects.
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.