Desonide gel is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in patients aged 3 months and older.

Desonide gel contains desonide, a synthetic non-fluorinated corticosteroid for topical dermatological use. Topical corticosteroids possess anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects. Although the exact mechanism of anti-inflammatory action is not fully understood, corticosteroids are believed to induce phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins known as lipocortins. These proteins are thought to control the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of arachidonic acid, their common precursor. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids through the action of phospholipase A2. After absorption through the skin, topical corticosteroids follow pharmacokinetic pathways similar to systemically administered corticosteroids.

Desonide gel is for external use only. Gel should be applied as a thin layer to the affected areas two times daily and rubbed in gently. Therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved. If no improvement is seen within 4 weeks, treatment should be discontinued and Desonide gel should not be used with occlusive dressings.

Pediatric use: The safety and effectiveness of Desonide gel in pediatric patients less than 3 months of age have not been evaluated, and therefore its use in this age group is not recommended.

Desonide gel is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to desonide or any component of the formulation.

The most common local side effects include burning sensation, rash, and itching at the application site. Less frequently reported local reactions with topical corticosteroids include folliculitis, acne-like eruptions, skin lightening (hypopigmentation), perioral dermatitis, secondary infection, skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks (striae), and miliaria. These effects are more likely with occlusive dressings and higher-potency steroids.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Desonide gel should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Systemically absorbed corticosteroids may pass into breast milk and may affect growth or interfere with natural steroid production in infants. It is not known whether topical use results in significant levels in breast milk; therefore, caution is advised in nursing mothers.

Desonide gel should be used exactly as prescribed by a physician and is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. It should not be applied to the underarm or groin areas in pediatric patients. If irritation develops, treatment should be discontinued and appropriate therapy started. Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids may lead to reversible suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and may cause steroid deficiency after stopping treatment. If no improvement is seen promptly, the medication should be discontinued until infection is controlled.

Topical application of desonide gel may be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic corticosteroid effects.

Other topical corticosteroids

Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.