Cutivate

Common use

Cutivate (for the skin) is used to treat the inflammation and itching caused by eczema or skin conditions that respond to steroid medication. Fluticasone is a potent steroid that helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Dosage and direction

Use the medicine exactly as directed. Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Wash your hands before and after using Cutivate, unless you are using the medicine to treat the skin on your hands. Apply a thin layer of medicine to the affected skin and rub it in gently. Do not apply this medicine over a large area of skin unless your doctor has told you to. Do not cover the treated skin area with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor tells you to.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have ever had: any type of skin infection; a skin reaction to any steroid medicine; liver disease; glaucoma or cataracts; diabetes; or an adrenal gland disorder. Steroid medicines can increase the glucose (sugar) levels in your blood or urine. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Using Cutivate long-term during pregnancy may increase your risk of low birthweight in the newborn baby. Use this medicine on the smallest skin area and for the shortest length of time needed to treat your condition.
It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk. If you apply fluticasone to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.

Contraindications

You should not use Cutivate if you are allergic to fluticasone or formaldehyde.
Do not use Cutivate on any child without a doctor's advice. Children can absorb larger amounts of this medication through the skin and may be more likely to have side effects.

Possible side effect

Common side effects of Cutivate may include: skin redness, itching, or rash; burning or stinging of treated skin; increased hair growth; or feeling light-headed.

Drug interaction

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Missed dose

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep away from children and pets.