Diaper rash is an inevitable part of raising an infant, and there are dozens of creams, ointments, powders and other products available that claim to treat it. Among these, mometasone furoate, better known by its brand name Elocon, is a steroid that can be used topically on the affected area to reduce inflammation on the skin. Considered safe for ages 2 and up, there are some concerns about mometasone furoate for infants.
Definition
Mometasone furoate, also referred to as mometasone, is a topical cream used to reduce inflammation on the skin and in your body's airways. As a cream or ointment, it is usually known as Elocon and is commonly used to treat skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also used in asthmatic inhalers and Nasonex as a spray to open respiratory passages.
Diaper Rash
Because mometasone furoate is so effective at treating skin inflammation in adults, many parents use the topical cream to treat diaper rash. Diaper rash is caused by excessive moisture and warmth under the diaper, which irritates the skin. It can also result from your baby not getting enough fluids to drink, and in some cases can be caused by a yeast infection.
Considerations
Mometasone furoate is a potent cortisone-like steroid, and as such, even small treatments may be absorbed into your bloodstream. When using mometasone products on the skin, apply just a small amount, and only to the affected area. If the area is wrapped under a bandage or diaper, it could cause an allergic reaction and other side effects.
Warning
Since the safety of the drug has not been adequately tested in infants under the age of 2, most pediatricians will not recommend using it to treat diaper rash. A baby's skin is especially sensitive, and many experts consider the hazard of absorbing mometasone into the bloodstream to be risky. Use only if specifically recommended by your pediatrician.
Tips
There are dozens of safe, effective products to treat diaper rash. Preventative remedies include keeping the area clean and dry, changing wet diapers frequently, airing out the skin after a diaper changing and checking to see if certain foods are creating the rash.
