DesOwen® Cream 0.05%, Ointment 0.05%, and Lotion 0.05% contain desonide (Pregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione,11,21-dihydroxy- 16,17-[(1-methylethylidene)bis(oxy)]-,(11 β ,16 α )- a synthetic nonfluorinated corticosteroid for topical dermatologic use. The corticosteroids constitute a class of primarily synthetic steroids used topically as antiinflammatory and anti-pruritic agents.

Chemically, desonide is C₂₄H₃₂O₆. It has the following structural formula:

Desonide has the molecular weight of 416.51. It is a white to off white odorless powder which is soluble in methanol and practically insoluble in water.

Each gram of DesOwen® Cream contains 0.5 mg of desonide in a base of citric acid, emulsifying wax, isopropyl palmitate, polysorbate 60, potassium sorbate, propyl gallate, propylene glycol, purified water, sodium hydroxide, sorbic acid, stearic acid, and synthetic beeswax.

Each gram of DesOwen® Ointment contains 0.5 mg of desonide in a base of mineral oil and polyethylene.

Each gram of DesOwen® Lotion contains 0.5 mg of desonide in a base of cetyl alcohol, edetate sodium, glyceryl stearate SE, light mineral oil, methylparaben, propylene glycol, propylparaben, purified water, sodium lauryl sulfate, sorbitan monostearate, and stearyl alcohol. May contain citric acid and/or sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment.

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

DesOwen® Cream, Ointment and Lotion are low to medium potency corticosteroids indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid responsive dermatoses.

DesOwen® Cream, Ointment or Lotion should be applied to the affected areas as a thin film two or three times daily depending on the severity of the condition. SHAKE LOTION WELL BEFORE USING.

As with other corticosteroids, therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved. If no improvement is seen within 2 weeks, reassessment of diagnosis may be necessary.

DesOwen® Cream, Ointment and Lotion should not be used with occlusive dressings.

DesOwen® (desonide cream) Cream 0.05% is supplied as follows:

60 g tube - NDC 0299-5770-60
60 g tube with complimentary 1 fl oz Cetaphil® Moisturizing Lotion - NDC 0299-5770-01

DesOwen® (desonide ointment) Ointment 0.05% is supplied as follows:

60 g tube - NDC 0299-5775-60
60 g tube with complimentary 1 fl oz Cetaphil® Moisturizing Lotion - NDC 0299-5775-01

DesOwen® (desonide lotion) Lotion 0.05% is supplied as follows:

2 fl oz bottle - NDC 0299-5765-02
2 fl oz bottle with complimentary .5 oz Cetaphil® Moisturizing Cream - NDC 0299-5765-00
4 fl oz bottle - NDC 0299-5765-04
4 fl oz bottle with complimentary .5 oz Cetaphil® Moisturizing Cream - NDC 0299-5765-03

Storage Conditions: Store between 2° and 30°C (36° and 86°F).

Marketed by: GALDERMA LABORATORIES, L.P. Fort Worth, Texas 76177, USA. Mfd. by: DPT Laboratories, Ltd. San Antonio, Texas 78215, USA. Revised: June 2008. FDA Rev date: 06/12/98

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

In controlled clinical trials, the total incidence of adverse reactions associated with the use of desonide was approximately 8%. These were: stinging and burning approximately 3%, irritation, contact dermatitis, condition worsened, peeling of skin, itching, intense transient erythema, and dryness/scaliness, each less than 2%.

The following additional local adverse reactions have been reported infrequently with other topical corticosteroids, and they may occur more frequently with the use of occlusive dressings, especially with higher potency corticosteroids. These reactions are listed in an approximate decreasing order of occurrence: folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae, and miliaria.

No information provided.

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

No information provided.

General: Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can produce reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression with the potential for glucocorticosteroid insufficiency after withdrawal of treatment. Manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria can also be produced in some patients by systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids while on treatment.

Patients applying a topical steroid to a large surface area or to areas under occlusion should be evaluated periodically for evidence of HPA axis suppression. This may be done by using the ACTH stimulation, A.M. plasma cortisol, and urinary free cortisol tests. Patients receiving superpotent corticosteroids should not be treated for more than 2 weeks at a time and only small areas should be treated at any one time due to the increased risk of HPA axis suppression.

If HPA axis suppression is noted, an attempt should be made to withdraw the drug, to reduce the frequency of application, or to substitute a less potent corticosteroid. Recovery of HPA axis function is generally prompt and complete upon discontinuation of topical corticosteroids. Infrequently, signs and symptoms of glucocorticosteroid insufficiency may occur requiring supplemental systemic corticosteroids. For information on systemic supplementation, see prescribing information for those products.

Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity from equivalent doses due to their larger skin surface to body mass ratios. (See PRECAUTIONS - Pediatric use).

If irritation develops, DesOwen® Cream, Ointment or Lotion should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted. Allergic contact dermatitis with corticosteroids is usually diagnosed by observing failure to heal rather than noting a clinical exacerbation as with most topical products not containing corticosteroids. Such an observation should be corroborated with appropriate diagnostic patch testing.

If concomitant skin infections are present or develop, an appropriate antifungal or antibacterial agent should be used. If a favorable response does not occur promptly, use of DesOwen® (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) Cream, Ointment or Lotion should be discontinued until the infection has been adequately controlled.

Laboratory tests: The following tests may be helpful in evaluating patients for HPA axis suppression:

ACTH stimulation test
A.M. plasma cortisol test
Urinary free cortisol test

Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, and impairment of fertility: Long-term animal studies have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential or the effect on reproduction with the use of DesOwen® Cream, Ointment, and Lotion.

Pregnancy:Teratogenic effects: Pregnancy category C:

Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. Some corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic after dermal application in laboratory animals. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with DesOwen® Cream, Ointment or Lotion. It is also not known whether DesOwen® Cream, Ointment or Lotion can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. DesOwen® Cream, Ointment and Lotion should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

Nursing mothers: 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. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when DesOwen® Cream, Ointment or Lotion is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Because of a higher ratio of skin surface area to body mass, pediatric patients are at a greater risk than adults of HPA axis suppression when they are treated with topical corticosteroids. They are therefore also at greater risk of glucocorticosteroid insufficiency after withdrawal of treatment and of Cushing's syndrome while on treatment. Adverse effects including striae have been reported with inappropriate use of topical corticosteroids in infants and children.

HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, linear growth retardation, delayed weight gain and intracranial hypertension have been reported in children receiving topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression in children include low plasma cortisol levels, and absence of response to ACTH stimulation. Manifestations of intracranial hypertension include bulging fontanelles, headaches, and bilateral papilledema.

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

Topically applied DesOwen® (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) Cream, Ointment and Lotion can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects (See PRECAUTIONS).

DesOwen® Cream, Ointment and Lotion are contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the preparations.

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

Like other topical corticosteroids, desonide has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, 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.

Pharmacokinetics: The extent of percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids is determined by many factors including the vehicle and the integrity of the epidermal barrier. Occlusive dressings with hydrocortisone for up to 24 hours have not been demonstrated to increase penetration; however, occlusion of hydrocortisone for 96 hours markedly enhances penetration. Topical corticosteroids can be absorbed from normal intact skin. Inflammation and/or other disease processes in the skin may increase percutaneous absorption.

Studies performed with DesOwen® (desonide cream, ointment and lotion) Cream, Ointment, and Lotion indicate that they are in the low to medium range of potency as compared with other topical corticosteroids.

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

Patients using topical corticosteroids should receive the following information and instructions:

1. This medication is to be used as directed by the physician. It is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes.
2. This medication should not be used for any disorder other than that for which it was prescribed.
3. The treated skin area should not be bandaged or otherwise covered or wrapped so as to be occlusive unless directed by the physician.
4. Patients should report to their physician any signs of local adverse reactions.

Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your health care professional. Always seek the advice of your health care professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your health care professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you.

DESONIDE LOTION - TOPICAL

(DES-oh-nide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Desowen, Lokara

USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, allergies, rash). Desonide reduces the swelling, itching and redness that can occur in these types of conditions. Desonide is a mild corticosteroid.

HOW TO USE: Use this medication only on the skin.

Shake the bottle well before using. Wash your hands. Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin film of medication to the affected area and gently rub in, usually 2-3 times daily, or as directed by your doctor. Do not bandage, wrap, or cover the area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.

After applying the medication, wash and dry your hands, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. When applying this medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes because this may worsen or cause glaucoma or cause irritation. Also, avoid getting this medication in the nose or mouth. If you get this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth, rinse immediately with plenty of water.

Use this medication only for the condition prescribed.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after 2 weeks.

SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness, or redness may occur when first applied to the skin. This should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: stretch marks, skin thinning/discoloration, acne, excessive hair growth, hair bumps (folliculitis).

Skin infections can become worse when using this medication. Notify your doctor promptly if redness, swelling or irritation does not improve.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using desonide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone); or if you have any other allergies.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: poor blood circulation, diabetes, immune system problems, other skin conditions (e.g., rosacea, perioral dermatitis).

Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated.

Though very unlikely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed into your bloodstream. This may have undesirable consequences that may require additional corticosteroid treatment. This is especially true for children and for those who have used this drug for extended period of time, especially if they also have serious medical problems such as serious infections, injuries, or surgeries. This precaution applies for up to one year after stopping use of this drug. Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: vision problems, persistent headache, increased thirst or urination, unusual weakness, unusual weight loss, dizziness.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and inform them that you use or have used this medication.

Children may be more sensitive to the effects of steroid excess. Though it is unlikely to occur with topical corticosteroids, this medication may affect growth in infants and children if used for long periods. Monitor your child's height and rate of growth from time to time.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone), drugs that suppress the immune system (e.g., cyclosporine).

This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., adrenal gland function tests, morning cortisol blood test) may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects, especially if you use this drug for an extended period of time, apply it over large areas of the body, or bandage/wrap the treated areas. Consult your doctor for more details.

Inform all your doctors you use or have used this medication.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store the US product between 36-86 degrees F (2-30 degrees C)

Store the Canadian product between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C).

Store the medication away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

Information last revised July 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.