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

Desonide is a synthetic corticosteroid that induces phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins (lipocortins) and sequentially inhibits release of arachidonic acid, hence depresses the formation, release, and activity of chemical inflammatory mediators.

Topical/Cutaneous-
Corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses:

• Adult: As 0.05% cream, oint, or lotion: Apply sparingly onto the affected areas 2-4 times daily until optimal response is achieved. Max duration of therapy: 8 wk.
• Child: ≥ 2 yr Same as adult dose.

Atopic dermatitis:

• Adult: As 0.05% foam or gel: Apply to affected area(s) bid. Max duration of therapy: 4 wk.
• Child: ≥3 mth Same as adult dose.

Enhanced effect with other topical corticosteroids.

Desonide gel is contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the preparation.

The most common local side effects are burning, rash and pruritus at application site. The following additional local side effects have been reported infrequently with topical corticosteroids. They may occur more frequently with the use of occlusive dressings, especially with higher potency corticosteroids: folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae, and miliaria.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Desonide gel should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Desonide gel is administered to a nursing woman.

Monitor for hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression thru ACTH stimulation test, plasma cortisol test and urinary free cortisol test; signs and symptoms of bacterial or fungal infection.

Pediatric use: 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.

Topically applied Desonide gel can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects.

Other Topical corticosteroids

Store in a cool & dry place. Protect from light.