Cortoderm Cream:Uses, Safety,Instructions And Side Effects

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CORTODERM is a medicine your doctor can prescribe to help treat different skin problems that get better with steroids. If you have red, itchy, or irritated skin—like with eczema or other skin conditions—this guide will help you understand how CORTODERM works and how to use it, using simple and clear language based on the official patient leaflet.

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1. What CORTODERM Is and What It Is Used For

CORTODERM is a topical corticosteroid medication, available in both ointment and cream forms. It contains the active ingredient fluocinolone acetonide (1.25 mg per 5 g), which is effective at reducing redness, swelling, and itching caused by inflammatory skin conditions such as:

• Eczema
• Dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Allergic skin reactions

By calming the skin’s immune response, CORTODERM helps restore normal skin appearance and relieves discomfort.

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2. What You Need to Know Before You Use CORTODERM

Before using CORTODERM, it’s essential to understand whether it’s right for you. Certain conditions and precautions may make this medication unsuitable or require special care.

Do Not Use CORTODERM If:

Avoid using CORTODERM under the following circumstances:

• You’re allergic to fluocinolone acetonide or any of the other ingredients.
• You have viral skin infections like herpes simplex, varicella (chickenpox), or vaccinia.
• You are pregnant.
• You have diabetes or tuberculosis and need long-term use.
• You are treating the skin of infants or young children under 1 year.

Warnings and Precautions

Take special care and speak to your healthcare provider if:

• You experience skin irritation, redness, or sensitivity.
• Your symptoms return quickly after stopping the medicine—do not reapply without medical advice.
• You are using it on infected or inflamed skin—the infection must be treated first.
• You’re applying it to skin folds, as it may increase absorption.
• You’re applying it near the eyes—avoid direct contact with the eyes to prevent vision problems.
• You’re using it for psoriasis—the condition may worsen or trigger generalized pustular psoriasis.

Children

CORTODERM is not recommended for children under 1 year due to the potential for increased absorption and side effects. Always use under strict medical supervision for older children.

Other Medicines and CORTODERM

Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you’re using any other medications—including over-the-counter, herbal, or traditional remedies. Some ingredients may interact or affect how CORTODERM works.

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Fertility

• Do not use if you are pregnant.
• If you’re breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider before use.
• Topical steroids can potentially affect fertility with prolonged use, though this is rare.

Driving and Using Machines

CORTODERM is not likely to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel unwell or experience visual disturbances, avoid these activities until you feel normal again.

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Ingredients That May Cause Reactions

CORTODERM products contain inactive ingredients that may cause skin reactions in sensitive individuals.

Product Type	Potentially Reactive Ingredients
Ointment	Propylene glycol, stearyl alcohol
Cream	Cetyl alcohol, chlorocresol, propylene glycol

These can cause local irritation, allergic reactions, or contact dermatitis in some users.

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3. How to Use CORTODERM

Using CORTODERM correctly is vital for safe and effective treatment.

• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin 2 to 3 times a day.
• Gently rub it in until absorbed.
• If using an airtight dressing (occlusive dressing), clean the skin thoroughly first, then apply the ointment or cream and cover as directed.
• Only use for the duration recommended by your doctor.

If You Use More Than Prescribed

In case of accidental overuse, especially over large areas or with occlusive dressings, contact your doctor, pharmacist, or the nearest hospital. Overuse of steroids can lead to systemic side effects.

If You Forget to Use CORTODERM

• Apply your next dose as scheduled.
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

If You Stop Using CORTODERM

Abruptly stopping corticosteroids may cause withdrawal symptoms like:

• Redness spreading beyond the original area
• Burning or stinging
• Itching or peeling

Always taper down as directed by your healthcare provider.

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4. Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, CORTODERM may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Help)

Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience:

• Swelling of face, lips, throat, or limbs
• Rash, hives, or itching
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Fainting

These may indicate a severe allergic reaction.

Other Serious Side Effects

• Benign intracranial hypertension (headaches, vision issues, shoulder pain)
• Suppressed HPA axis function (reduced cortisol levels)
• Cushingoid appearance (moon face, abdominal fat)
• Growth retardation in children

These effects often result from prolonged use or application over large areas.

Side Effects with Unknown Frequency

Symptom Category	Examples
Skin Reactions	Rosacea-like dermatitis, acne, hypopigmentation, stretch marks, telangiectasia
Application Site Reactions	Burning, itching, peeling, oozing sores, irritation
Infections	Worsening or spreading of existing infections
Hair and Circulation	Hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth), bruising (ecchymoses, purpura)

If you experience any unusual symptoms not listed here, notify your doctor or pharmacist.

Reporting Side Effects

Report adverse effects via:

• SAHPRA Med Safety App

Your feedback helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

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5. How to Store CORTODERM

Proper storage ensures the medicine stays effective and safe.

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep away from light and moisture.
• Do not keep in the bathroom.
• Store in the original packaging until needed.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use past the expiry date.
• Return unused medication to your pharmacist—never dispose of it in drains or toilets.

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6. Contents of the Pack and Other Information

CORTODERM is available in both ointment and cream formulations, suitable for different skin types and preferences.

What CORTODERM Contains

Product	Active Ingredient (per 5 g)	Key Inactive Ingredients
Ointment	Fluocinolone acetonide (1.25 mg)	Beeswax white, cholesterol, soft paraffin, stearyl alcohol
Cream	Fluocinolone acetonide (1.25 mg)	Cetyl alcohol, chlorocresol, emulsifying wax, liquid paraffin

• The preservative in the cream is Chlorocresol 0.1% m/m.

What It Looks Like and How It’s Packaged

Form	Appearance	Packaging Options
Ointment	Soft, white translucent	15 g tube or 500 g jar
Cream	Smooth, white cream	15 g tube or 500 g jar

Each product is packaged with a screw cap and comes in a cardboard carton with this leaflet included.

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Holder of Certificate of Registration

Pharmacare Limited
Healthcare Park, Woodlands Drive
Woodmead 2191, South Africa

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Final Thoughts

CORTODERM is a trusted and effective treatment for inflammatory skin conditions when used correctly and under medical supervision. While its benefits are significant, misuse or overuse can lead to serious side effects. This guide is designed to help you make informed, confident decisions about your treatment.

If you have any questions or concerns, always consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Sources: SAHPRA

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