General:Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids has produced
reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, manifestations
of Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria in some patients. Conditions
that augment systemic absorption include application of the more potent steroids,
use over large surface areas, prolonged use, and the addition of occlusive dressings
(see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Therefore, patients receiving a large dose of any potent topical steroid applied to a large surface area should be evaluated periodically for evidence of HPA axis suppression by using the urinary free cortisol and ACTH stimulation tests, and for impairment of internal homeostasis. If HPA axis suppression or elevation of the body temperature occurs, an attempt should be made to withdraw the drug, to reduce the frequency of application, or substitute a less potent steroid.
Recovery of HPA axis function and thermal homeostasis are generally prompt and complete upon discontinuation of the drug. Infrequently, signs and symptoms of steroid withdrawal may occur, requiring supplemental systemic corticosteroids.
Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids
and thus be more susceptible to systemic toxicity (see PRECAUTIONS, Pediatric
Use).
If irritation or hypersensitivity develops with the combination nystatin and triamcinolone acetonide, treatment should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
Laboratory Tests: If there is a lack of therapeutic response, appropriate
microbiological studies (e.g. KOH smears and/or cultures) should be repeated
to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other pathogens, before instituting another
course of therapy.
A urinaryfree cortisol test and ACTH stimulation test may be helpful in evaluating hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression due to corticosteroids.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, and Impairment of Fertility: Long-term
animal studies have not been performed to evaluate carcinogenic or mutagenic
potential, or possible impairment of fertility in males or females.
Pregnancy Category C: There are no teratogenic studies with combined
nystatin and triamcinolone acetonide. Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic
in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage
levels. The more potent corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic after
dermal application in laboratory animals. Therefore, any topical corticosteroid
preparation should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies
the potential risk to the fetus.
Topical preparations containing corticosteroids should not be used extensively on pregnant patients, in large amounts, or for prolonged periods of time.
Nursing Mothers: It is not known whether any component of this preparation
is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution
should be exercised during the use of this preparation by a nursing woman.
Pediatric Use: In clinical studies of a limited number of pediatric
patients ranging from two months through 12 years, nystatin and triamcinolone
acetonide cream formulation cleared or significantly ameliorated the disease
state in most patients.
Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced
hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome
than mature patients because of a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio.
HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and intracranial hypertension have been reported in children receiving topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression in children include linear growth retardation, delayed weight gain, low plasma cortisol levels, and absence of response to ACTH stimulation. Manifestations of intracranial hypertension include bulging fontanelles, headaches, and bilateral papilledema.
Administration of topical corticosteroids to children should be limited to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Chronic corticosteroid therapy may interfere with the growth and development of children.
Last updated on RxList: 8/11/2008