Pronunciation(DES oh nide)
U.S. Brand NamesDesOwen®; LoKara™; Tridesilon®
Generic AvailableYes
Canadian Brand NamesDesocort®; PMS-Desonide
UseAdjunctive therapy for inflammation in acute and chronic corticosteroid responsive dermatosis (low potency corticosteroid)
Pregnancy Risk FactorC
ContraindicationsHypersensitivity to desonide or any component of the formulation; fungal infections, tuberculosis of skin, herpes simplex
Warnings/PrecautionsUse with caution in patients with impaired circulation, skin infections
Adverse Reactions<1%: Itching; dry skin; folliculitis; hypertrichosis; acneiform eruptions; hypopigmentation; perioral dermatitis; allergic contact dermatitis; skin maceration; skin atrophy; striae; local burning, irritation, miliaria; secondary infection
Overdosage/ToxicologySymptoms of overdose include moon face, central obesity, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, peptic ulcer, increased susceptibility to infection, electrolyte and fluid imbalance, psychosis, hallucinations. When consumed in excessive quantities, systemic hypercorticism and adrenal suppression may occur; in those cases discontinuation and withdrawal of the corticosteroid should be done judiciously.
Drug InteractionsNo data reported
Mechanism of ActionStimulates the synthesis of enzymes needed to decrease inflammation, suppress mitotic activity, and cause vasoconstriction
Pharmacodynamics/KineticsOnset of action: ~7 days Absorption: Extensive from scalp, face, axilla, and scrotum; adequate through epidermis on appendages; may be increased with occlusion or addition of penetrants (eg, urea, DMSO) Metabolism: Hepatic Excretion: Primarily urine
DosageCorticosteroid responsive dermatoses: Topical: Apply 2-4 times/day sparingly. Therapy should be discontinued when control is achieved; if no improvement is seen, reassessment of diagnosis may be necessary.
AdministrationDo not use on open wounds; apply sparingly to occlusive dressings
Patient EducationA thin film of cream or ointment is effective; do not overuse. Rub in lightly. Do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants on children being treated in the diaper area. Use only as prescribed and for no longer than the period prescribed. Avoid contact with eyes; notify physician if condition being treated persists or worsens. Pregnancy precaution: Inform prescriber if you are pregnant.
Dental Health: Effects on Dental TreatmentNo significant effects or complications reported
Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic PrecautionsNo information available to require special precautions
Mental Health: Effects on Mental StatusNone reported
Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric TreatmentNone reported
Dosage FormsCream, topical: 0.05% (15 g, 60 g) DesOwen®: 0.05% (15 g, 60 g, 90 g) Tridesilon®: 0.05% (15 g) Lotion, topical (DesOwen®, LoKara™): 0.05% (60 mL, 120 mL) Ointment, topical: 0.05% (15 g, 60 g) DesOwen®: 0.05% (15 g, 60 g) Tridesilon®: 0.05% (15 g)
International Brand NamesApolar® (FI, ID, NO); Dermanide® (ID); Desocort® (CA); Desolex® (ID); Desonida® (CO); Desonol® (BR); Desoplus® (AR); Desowen® (AR, AU, BR, CL, IN, MX, NZ, SG); Locapred® (CH, FR); Locatop® (CH, FR, PL); Maxiderm® (EC); PMS-Desonide (CA); Prenacid® (IT, RO, RU); Reticus® (IT); Sterades® (IT); Sterax® (BE, CL, LU); Steronide® (BR); Tresilen® (CO); Tridésonit® (FR); Zotinar® (PT)
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