Fluocinonide cream is a prescription corticosteroid medication used to alleviate skin irritation symptoms, such as dryness, inflammation or itching, in patients with certain types of skin conditions. This topical cream is applied directly to the affected region of skin as prescribed by a doctor. Fluocinonide cream side effects are limited, but patients should discuss these effects with a doctor before using this medication.
Dryness or Itching
Fluocinonide cream may cause the treated skin to dry out, RxList warns. Dry skin may begin to flake or peel and can become itchy. Patients who develop dry, itchy skin may frequently scratch at the affected region of skin, which may lead to a secondary skin infection. Skin infection symptoms may include inflammation, redness or oozing fluid, and affected patients should contact a medical professional for further guidance.
Burning or Stinging
During fluocinonide cream application, patients may experience sensations of burning or stinging at the site of treatment, Drugs.com warns. These uncomfortable side effects may be painful, but typically resolve within a few minutes of application.
Skin Discoloration
The treated skin region may appear unusually discolored following application of this corticosteroid cream, MedlinePlus reports. Patients may notice that the skin is red or lighter or darker than the surrounding, untreated skin. Skin discoloration following treatment with fluocinonide cream is generally temporary and subsides once patients stop using this topical medication.
Acne or Folliculitis
Inflammatory skin lesions may develop across the treated skin region as a side effect of fluocinonide cream use, Drugs.com warns. Patients may develop pus-filled skin lesions, also called acne, or inflamed hair follicles, also called folliculitis, at the treatment site. These skin lesions may be sensitive or painful to the touch and may be embarrassing to certain patients. Patients should avoid scratching or picking at these inflamed skin lesions to reduce the risk of infection, skin discoloration or scaring.
