Atcovate Ointment 0.05mg Ointment

Fluticasone propionate skin cream or ointment is a corticosteroid (steroid) classed as strong (potent). It calms inflammation in the skin and eases redness and itching.

In adults it is used for skin problems such as:

• eczema and dermatitis
• psoriasis
• insect bites and prickly heat

In children it is used for dermatitis that has not got better with milder steroid creams, on a doctor's advice.

Use it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you. It is for use on the skin only.

• Wash your hands, then spread a thin layer over the affected skin and rub it in gently until it disappears. Your pharmacist can show you how to measure it in 'fingertip units'.
• Wash your hands afterwards, unless you are treating your hands. Wear gloves or wash your hands if applying it to someone else.
• Do not use it on large areas, under airtight dressings or nappies, or for a long time unless your doctor tells you to.
• Keep it away from your eyes. Use it on the face only if your doctor advises, and only for a short time.
• If you forget a dose, apply it when you remember, unless your next application is nearly due.
• If you use it regularly, talk to your doctor before stopping.

Common side effects include itching or irritation where it is applied. A burning feeling is less common.

With long or heavy use, possible effects include thinner skin, stretch marks, visible small blood vessels, skin colour changes or extra hair growth. In children, it can slow growth and weight gain.

Stop using it and tell your doctor if:

• your skin gets worse or becomes swollen (this may be an allergy or infection)
• you get blurred vision or other eyesight problems
• after long use, you get redness spreading beyond the treated area, burning, intense itching, peeling or oozing sores, during treatment or after stopping

Do not use it on babies under 3 months, or to treat acne, rosacea, a rash around the mouth, itching around the bottom or genitals, or infected skin (unless the infection is also being treated).

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have had an allergy to another steroid
• want to use it on broken skin, skin folds, large areas, thin skin such as the face, near the eyes, or on a leg ulcer
• have psoriasis
• take ritonavir or itraconazole
• are pregnant, may be pregnant or are breastfeeding

Avoid long continuous use in children under 12.

Do not store above 30°C. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Fire risk: do not smoke or go near naked flames while using it. Clothing, bedding and dressings that have touched the cream or ointment can catch fire more easily, and washing may not remove it fully.

Flare-ups: if your skin problem comes back within 2 weeks of stopping, do not restart it without asking your doctor first.

Swallowing: if a lot is used or swallowed by mistake, talk to a doctor or go to hospital.