Generic Elocon

Elocon is a brand name for mometasone furoate. It is a synthetic corticosteroid prescribed for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to treat the itchy skin resulting from infections, allergic reactions, psoriasis or eczema. It comes in an ointment or a lotion, and should only be applied externally, once a day, on the affected areas. Be sure to keep it out of your eyes, off your face, and not to use it in your underarm or groin areas. Do not cover the area or bandage it unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so. Because it is a steroidal medication, you should discontinue it as soon as your symptoms are managed, with the permission of your doctor.

Side effects for Elocon are usually very minor, and very few people experience them. In some cases, the itching of the skin can get worse rather than better, and in rare cases, the skin may atrophy, that is, degenerate with the use of the medication. Some people also experience rosacea, which means red spots or patches on the skin. Other rare but possible side effects that can happen, especially if you use an occlusive dressing on your rash, include irritation of the skin, burning, dryness, folliculitis (infected hair follicles), eruptions of acne, bleaching of the skin (hypopigmentation), secondary infections, spider veins, numbness or tingling, crusting of skin, stretch marks, excessive hair growth, rash around the mouth, and thinning of your skin. You should make sure your doctor knows if you are diabetic, because absorption of steroids can increase the glucose level in your body, even to the point of causing diabetes mellitus. Serious side effects can include blurred vision, mood changes, insomnia, weight gain or puffiness in your face, muscle weakness, or fatigue. If you experience any of these, call your doctor immediately.

Elocon is in Pregnancy Category C, and has been shown, like other corticosteroids, to cause birth defects and miscarriages. It should not be prescribed for anyone who is pregnant. It is also known to pass into breast milk in very small quantities. These quantities are not likely to harm a child, but if you should always let your doctor know if you are nursing a child. You and your doctor may determine that it is best to either discontinue breast feeding or to use another medication for your skin condition.

Side effects of Elocon are slightly higher in young children, including delay in growth with long-term use, because they absorb more of the drug than adults do, so they should be monitored carefully when being treated with Elocon. Elocon is not recommended for children under two, and it is not to be used to treat diaper rash or any skin infection in the diaper area. If children do experience irritation of their skin, you should stop treating them with Elocon and instead treat the new irritation. If they develop a new infection, have them stop taking Elocon and treat the new infection with the appropriate anti-bacteria or anti-fungal medication.