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Fluocinolone Shampoo

What is this medication?

FLUOCINOLONE (floo oh SIN oh lone) treats seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes dry, flaky, and itchy skin. It works by decreasing inflammation of the skin. It belongs to a group of medications called topical steroids.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Capex, FS Shampoo

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Diabetes (high blood sugar)
  • Large areas of burned or damaged skin
  • Skin infection
  • Thinning or wrinkling of the skin
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to fluocinolone, corticosteroids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash hands before and after use. Use this medication as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Shake well before using.

Apply the shampoo to the scalp and work into a lather. Leave on the scalp for about 5 minutes unless your care team tells you differently. Rinse thoroughly. Do not use your medication more often than directed or for a longer period of time than ordered by your care team. To do so may increase the chance of absorption through the skin and the chance of side effects. Do not bandage or cover the treated scalp area unless directed to do so by your care team. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse them out with plenty of cool tap water.

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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other scalp products without telling your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better of if they get worse.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
  • Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
  • Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain
  • Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
  • Unexpected hair growth at application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep the bottle tightly closed. Throw away any remaining shampoo after 2 months.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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