Elocon Cream and Ointment: A Comprehensive Guide to Mometasone Furoate for Skin Inflammation

We understand that dealing with inflammatory skin conditions can be challenging. This guide provides comprehensive information about Elocon cream and Elocon ointment, prescription medications containing mometasone furoate. We aim to clarify what Elocon is, how it works, its uses, necessary precautions, and potential side effects to ensure safe and effective treatment under medical supervision.

It is crucial to read this information carefully before starting treatment with Elocon. We advise keeping this guide handy for future reference, as you may need to consult it again. If you have any questions or uncertainties, consulting your doctor or pharmacist is essential for personalized advice. Remember, Elocon has been prescribed specifically for your condition; do not share it with others, as it may not be suitable for them and could cause harm, even if their symptoms seem similar.

Understanding Elocon: What It Is and How It Works

Elocon is a topical medication, available as both a cream and an ointment. Its primary active ingredient is mometasone furoate, a type of synthetic corticosteroid. Corticosteroids mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the body’s adrenal glands, known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Elocon belongs to the class of potent topical corticosteroids. When applied to the skin, mometasone furoate works by penetrating skin cells and suppressing the inflammatory response. It achieves this by inhibiting the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This action helps to reduce symptoms like redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort associated with various skin conditions.

The effectiveness of Elocon lies in its ability to calm the overactive immune response occurring locally in the skin. This targeted action makes it a valuable tool in managing inflammatory dermatoses. It is specifically designed for external use only on the skin.

Approved Uses for Elocon: Treating Inflammatory Skin Conditions

Elocon cream and Elocon ointment are specifically indicated for the topical treatment of certain skin inflammations that respond well to corticosteroid therapy. Your doctor may prescribe Elocon if you have one of the following conditions:

• Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition characterized by rapid skin cell turnover, leading to thick, red, scaly patches (plaques). Elocon helps reduce the inflammation, scaling, and itching associated with plaque psoriasis. It is not a cure but helps manage symptoms effectively.
• Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): A common chronic inflammatory skin condition, often starting in childhood, causing dry, itchy, red, and sometimes weeping skin. Elocon is used to control eczema flare-ups, alleviating itching and reducing inflammation.
• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Skin inflammation caused by direct contact with irritating substances like harsh soaps, detergents, chemicals, or excessive moisture. Elocon can soothe the resulting redness, itching, and discomfort.
• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: An immune reaction triggered by contact with an allergen, such as poison ivy, nickel, fragrances, or certain preservatives. Elocon helps reduce the allergic inflammatory response, relieving symptoms like intense itching, redness, and blistering.

It is vital to understand that Elocon should only be used for conditions diagnosed by a healthcare professional and deemed responsive to potent topical corticosteroid treatment. Using it for other conditions can be ineffective or even harmful.

The Science of Topical Corticosteroids: Potency Explained

Topical corticosteroids like mometasone furoate are categorized based on their potency, ranging from mild (Class VII) to super potent (Class I). Elocon (mometasone furoate 0.1%) is classified as a potent corticosteroid (typically Class III or IV, depending on the specific classification system). The potency determines the strength of the anti-inflammatory effect.

Higher potency steroids provide stronger effects but also carry a greater risk of side effects, especially with prolonged use or application over large areas. Understanding the potency is crucial because it influences:

• The types of skin conditions it can treat effectively.
• The duration of treatment (potent steroids are often used for shorter periods).
• The areas of the body where it can be safely applied (potent steroids are generally avoided or used very cautiously on thin-skinned areas like the face, groin, or underarms).

Your doctor selects the appropriate potency based on the severity and type of your skin condition, the location on the body, and your age. Potent corticosteroids like Elocon require careful monitoring and adherence to medical advice.

Crucial Information Before Starting Elocon Treatment

Before you begin using Elocon cream or ointment, it is essential to discuss your medical history with your doctor. Certain conditions or factors may make Elocon unsuitable for you.

When NOT to Use Elocon (Contraindications):

You should not use Elocon under the following circumstances:

• Known Allergy: If you have ever had an unusual or severe allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to mometasone furoate, other corticosteroids, or any of the inactive ingredients listed in the product (see ‘Package Contents and Ingredients’ section below).
• Certain Skin Conditions: Elocon should not be applied to skin affected by:
  • Acne Vulgaris: Common acne; steroids can worsen breakouts.
  • Acne Rosacea: A condition causing facial redness and bumps; steroids can aggravate it significantly.
  • Perioral Dermatitis: Inflammation around the mouth; steroids are a common cause or trigger.
  • Skin Atrophy: Thinning of the skin; steroids can cause or worsen this.
  • Anal or Genital Itching: These areas are often affected by fungal or bacterial infections, where steroids are inappropriate unless combined with an anti-infective under medical guidance.
  • Nappy Rash (Diaper Dermatitis): The occlusive environment under a diaper increases absorption and risk; specific treatments are usually required.
  • Viral Skin Infections: Including chickenpox, shingles (herpes zoster), cold sores (herpes simplex), or warts. Steroids suppress the immune response, allowing viral infections to worsen or spread.
  • Fungal or Bacterial Skin Infections: Such as ringworm (tinea) or impetigo, unless Elocon is prescribed alongside an appropriate anti-fungal or anti-bacterial agent. Steroids alone can mask or worsen these infections.
  • Post-Vaccination Skin Reactions: Reactions occurring at the site of a recent vaccination.
  • Ulcerated Skin or Open Wounds: Steroids can impair healing and increase the risk of infection and systemic absorption.

Always consult your doctor to ensure Elocon is appropriate for your specific diagnosis. Proper diagnosis is key to effective and safe treatment.

Important Precautions for Safe Elocon Use

To minimize risks and maximize the benefits of Elocon, follow these precautions carefully:

• Avoid Occlusive Dressings: Do not cover the treated skin with bandages, dressings, or wraps unless specifically instructed by your doctor. Occlusion significantly increases the absorption of the steroid into the bloodstream, raising the risk of systemic side effects.
• Limit Area and Duration: Avoid applying Elocon to large areas of the skin or using it for prolonged periods without your doctor’s approval. Long-term, widespread use increases the chance of the medication being absorbed systemically.
• Sensitive Skin Areas: Exercise extreme caution when applying Elocon to sensitive or thin-skinned areas:
  • Face: Treatment on the face should not exceed 5 days. Facial skin is thinner and more susceptible to side effects like thinning and blood vessel changes.
  • Skin Folds: Areas like the groin, underarms (axillae), or under the breasts absorb topical steroids more readily. Use only if specifically directed by your doctor and for the shortest possible time.
• Eye Contact: Avoid getting Elocon cream or ointment in your eyes, on your eyelids, or on mucous membranes (inside the nose or mouth). Accidental contact can cause irritation or potentially serious eye problems like glaucoma or cataracts with prolonged exposure near the eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with clean water. Elocon is not intended for ophthalmic use.
• Monitor Symptoms: If your skin condition does not improve within a few days of starting Elocon, or if it seems to be getting worse, consult your doctor immediately. Lack of improvement might indicate an incorrect diagnosis, a secondary infection, or the need for a different treatment.
• Psoriasis Considerations: While effective for psoriasis, abrupt discontinuation after long-term use can sometimes lead to a rebound flare-up or the development of pustular psoriasis. Follow your doctor’s instructions for stopping treatment, which may involve gradual reduction.
• Hand Washing: Always wash your hands thoroughly after applying Elocon, unless your hands are the area being treated. This prevents accidental transfer to other body parts (like the eyes) or to other people.

Elocon Use in Children and Adolescents: Special Considerations

Children are more susceptible to the side effects of topical corticosteroids than adults. This increased sensitivity is due to their higher skin surface area to body weight ratio, which allows for greater proportional absorption of the medication.

Therefore, the use of Elocon in children and adolescents requires particular caution:

• Doctor’s Advice is Essential: Elocon should only be used in children under strict medical supervision and prescription.
• Increased Risk of Systemic Effects: Children are at higher risk of developing systemic side effects from absorbed corticosteroids, including:
  • Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis Suppression: Interference with the body’s natural stress hormone production.
  • Cushing’s Syndrome: A condition caused by prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, leading to symptoms like weight gain, moon face, and skin changes.
  • Growth Retardation: Chronic use of potent corticosteroids can potentially interfere with a child’s growth and development.
• Minimize Exposure: The smallest amount of Elocon necessary to achieve the desired therapeutic effect should be used. Treatment duration should be kept as short as possible.
• Avoid High-Risk Practices: In children, strictly avoid applying Elocon:
  • Under dressings or diapers (which act as occlusive dressings).
  • Over large areas of the skin.
  • On the face (treatment should not exceed 5 days).
  • In skin folds (groin, underarms).

Parents and caregivers must follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions precisely regarding the amount, frequency, and duration of Elocon application in children.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Elocon Cream and Ointment

Correct application technique is crucial for the effectiveness and safety of Elocon. Follow these steps carefully, applying the medication once daily, unless your doctor has given different instructions:

1. Wash Hands: Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Prepare the Skin: Gently wash and dry the affected area of skin. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
3. Apply a Thin Layer: Squeeze a small amount of Elocon cream or ointment onto your fingertip. Apply a thin layer only to the affected skin areas. A thin layer means just enough to cover the area lightly – the skin should not look white or greasy from the product after application.
4. Massage Gently: Rub the medication gently and completely into the skin until it disappears.
5. Wash Hands Again: Wash your hands thoroughly after application, unless you are treating your hands. This prevents spreading the medication to unaffected areas or other people.

Cream vs. Ointment:

• Elocon Cream: Has a lighter consistency, is less greasy, and is generally preferred for moist or weeping skin lesions.
• Elocon Ointment: Is thicker and more greasy (occlusive), providing more moisture and penetration. It is often better suited for dry, scaly, or thickened (lichenified) skin lesions. The ointment formulation contains propylene glycol stearate, which can occasionally cause skin irritation or reactions resembling eczema in sensitive individuals.

Remember, Elocon is for dermal (skin) use only. Do not swallow it or use it inside the body.

Managing Your Elocon Treatment Effectively

Consistent and appropriate management of your Elocon therapy is key to achieving the best results while minimizing risks.

• Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to your doctor’s instructions regarding how often and for how long to use Elocon. Do not use it more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed.
• Consistency is Key: Apply the medication consistently as directed, usually once daily.
• Avoid Abrupt Stoppage: If you have been using Elocon for a prolonged period, do not stop treatment abruptly without consulting your doctor. Gradual reduction (tapering) may be necessary to prevent a rebound flare-up of your skin condition.
• No Sharing: Elocon is a prescription medicine intended solely for the person it was prescribed for. Do not give your medicine to another person, even if their symptoms appear similar.
• Prescribed Indications Only: Use Elocon only for the specific skin condition your doctor diagnosed and prescribed it for. Do not use it for other skin problems.

Handling Missed Doses and Potential Overuse

Understanding how to handle missed doses or accidental overuse is important for safety.

If You Forget to Use Elocon:

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a forgotten one.

If You Use More Elocon Than You Should (Overuse):

Using too much Elocon or using it for longer than recommended can increase the risk of side effects, including systemic absorption. While acute overdose from topical application is unlikely, chronic overuse can lead to symptoms associated with excess corticosteroids (like Cushing’s syndrome).

Accidental ingestion or significant absorption through the mouth (e.g., if applied near the mouth and licked, especially by children) requires immediate medical attention.

If you suspect you have used too much Elocon, or if someone accidentally swallows it, contact your doctor, pharmacist, or local poison control center immediately. To date, specific cases of acute overdose with Elocon have not been frequently reported, but the potential risks associated with excessive corticosteroid exposure necessitate prompt medical advice.

Understanding the Potential Side Effects of Elocon

Like all medications, Elocon can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Side effects are more likely with potent corticosteroids, prolonged use, application under occlusion, or use over large skin areas or on sensitive skin.

The following side effects have been observed with Elocon or other topical corticosteroids:

• Common or Possible Local Skin Reactions:
  • Dry skin
  • Tingling or stinging sensation upon application
  • Itching (pruritus)
  • Burning sensation or irritation at the application site
  • Inflammation of hair follicles (folliculitis – may appear as small boils)
  • Skin discoloration (lighter spots – hypopigmentation, or darker spots – hyperpigmentation)
  • Increased hair growth in the treated area (hypertrichosis)
  • Changes in skin feeling, such as numbness or altered sensation (paresthesia)
  • Allergic contact dermatitis (a new rash or worsening of the existing one due to allergy to the product)
  • Secondary infections (if used on infected skin without appropriate anti-infective)
  • Pain at the application site
• Less Common Side Effects (Often associated with longer-term or more extensive use):
  • Skin thinning (atrophy) – skin becomes fragile and easily bruised
  • Expansion of small surface blood vessels (telangiectasia or “spider veins”)
  • Stretch marks (striae), especially in skin folds
  • Redness (erythema)
  • Acne-like breakouts (acneiform eruptions)
  • Small bleeding spots under the skin (purpura)

Systemic Side Effects: These are rare with appropriate topical use but can occur if significant amounts of the steroid are absorbed into the bloodstream (e.g., prolonged use over large areas, occlusion, use in children). These can include HPA axis suppression, Cushing’s syndrome, high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), and sugar in the urine (glucosuria).

Reporting Side Effects: If you experience any side effects, especially those mentioned as serious (like signs of infection, severe irritation, or signs of systemic absorption), or if you notice any side effects not listed here, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Reporting side effects helps ensure the safe use of medications.

Potential Interactions with Other Medications

Before starting Elocon, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you are currently taking or have recently taken. This includes:

• Other prescription medications
• Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
• Herbal supplements
• Other topical preparations (creams, ointments, lotions) applied to the same area.

While significant drug interactions are less common with topical corticosteroids compared to oral or injected forms, absorbed mometasone furoate could potentially interact with drugs metabolized by the CYP3A4 enzyme system (like certain antifungals or HIV medications) if absorption is high. Applying other topical products simultaneously might affect Elocon’s absorption or cause irritation. Always follow medical advice regarding the concurrent use of different treatments.

Elocon Use During Pregnancy and Lactation

The use of Elocon during pregnancy or while breastfeeding requires careful consideration of potential risks and benefits.

• Pregnancy: There is limited data on the use of mometasone furoate in pregnant women. As a general principle, potent topical corticosteroids should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by a doctor. If prescribed, use should be limited to small areas, for the shortest possible duration, and not under occlusion.
• Lactation (Breastfeeding): It is not definitively known whether topically applied mometasone furoate is excreted in breast milk. However, systemic absorption is generally low with proper use. Your doctor will decide if you can use Elocon while breastfeeding. If used, avoid applying it to the breast area to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant.

Always seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist before using any medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Effects on Driving and Operating Machinery

Elocon cream and ointment have no known effect on the ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Your alertness and coordination should not be affected by the use of this topical medication.

Proper Storage of Elocon Cream and Ointment

Correct storage is important to maintain the medication’s effectiveness and safety:

• Keep Out of Reach: Store Elocon out of the sight and reach of children at all times.
• Temperature Control: Store the medication at a controlled room temperature, specifically between 2°C and 30°C (36°F and 86°F). Do not freeze the cream or ointment.
• Check Expiry Date: Do not use Elocon after the expiry date (EXP) printed on both the metal tube and the outer carton. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month indicated.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused medication responsibly. Ask your pharmacist about local guidelines for medicine disposal; do not flush it down the toilet or discard it in household waste unless instructed.

Contents of the Package and Ingredient Information

Understanding the composition of your medication is important, especially if you have known sensitivities.

Active Substance:

Each gram of Elocon cream or Elocon ointment contains:

• Mometasone furoate 1 mg (equivalent to 0.1% w/w)

Other Ingredients (Excipients):

Elocon Cream:

• White petrolatum (soft paraffin)
• White wax (beeswax)
• Propylene glycol stearate
• Stearyl alcohol and ceteareth-20 (emulsifying agents)
• Hexylene glycol
• Titanium dioxide (a white pigment)
• Aluminium starch octenylsuccinate (a thickening agent)
• Diluted phosphoric acid (for pH adjustment)
• Purified water

Elocon Ointment:

• Hexylene glycol
• White wax (beeswax)
• Propylene glycol stearate
• White petrolatum (soft paraffin)
• Diluted phosphoric acid (for pH adjustment)
• Purified water

Note: Both formulations contain propylene glycol stearate, which may cause local skin irritation in some individuals.

Package Appearance and Contents:

• Elocon cream: Provided in metal tubes containing 20 grams of white to off-white cream, packaged with an insert leaflet.
• Elocon ointment: Provided in metal tubes containing 20 grams of white to off-white translucent ointment, packaged with an insert leaflet.

Manufacturer and Marketing Information

• Marketing Authorisation Holder: MSD Belgium BVBA/SPRL Clos du Lynx 5, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
• Manufacturer: Produced by South Egypt Drug Industries Company “SEDICO” 6 October City – Egypt Tel.: 38331590 / 91 / 92 / 94 – Fax: 38331593

For further information about this medicine, please contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Elocon is a medicinal product subject to medical prescription. This leaflet was last revised in 09/2013.

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(This is a medicament)

• A medicament is a product that affects your health, and its consumption contrary to instructions is dangerous for you.
• Strictly follow the doctor’s prescription, the method of use, and the instruction of the pharmacist who sold the medicament.
• The doctor and the pharmacist are experts in medicine, its benefits, and risks.
• Do not interrupt the treatment period without consulting your physician.
• Do not repeat the same prescription without consulting your doctor. Council of Arab Health Ministers & Union of Arab Pharmacists

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Elocon

Here we address some common questions regarding Elocon (mometasone furoate):

1. What is Elocon primarily used for? Elocon cream and ointment are primarily used to treat the symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions that respond to corticosteroids. This includes reducing redness, itching, and swelling associated with conditions like psoriasis (specifically plaque psoriasis), atopic dermatitis (eczema), irritant contact dermatitis, and allergic contact dermatitis. It helps manage flare-ups and alleviate discomfort effectively when used as prescribed.

It’s important to remember that Elocon treats the symptoms of inflammation but does not cure the underlying condition. A proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional is essential before starting treatment. Using it for conditions it’s not indicated for, like fungal infections or acne, can be ineffective or worsen the problem.

2. Is Elocon considered a strong steroid? Yes, Elocon (mometasone furoate 0.1%) is classified as a potent topical corticosteroid. Topical steroids are ranked by strength, and Elocon falls into a higher potency category. This means it has a strong anti-inflammatory effect, making it effective for moderate to severe inflammatory skin conditions responsive to steroids.

Because it is potent, it requires careful use under medical supervision. Treatment duration is often limited, especially on sensitive areas, to minimize the risk of side effects like skin thinning or systemic absorption. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding application frequency and duration.

3. Can I safely use Elocon on my face? Using Elocon on the face requires extreme caution and should only be done under the direct guidance of a doctor. Facial skin is thinner and more sensitive than skin elsewhere on the body, making it more susceptible to steroid-induced side effects like thinning (atrophy), telangiectasias (spider veins), and perioral dermatitis. It should never be used near the eyes.

If prescribed for facial use, the duration of treatment must be strictly limited, typically not exceeding 5 days. Apply only a very thin layer to the affected areas. Never use Elocon on the face for conditions like acne or rosacea, as it can worsen them significantly.

4. How long can I use Elocon continuously? The duration for which you can continuously use Elocon depends heavily on the condition being treated, the location on the body, your age, and your doctor’s assessment. As a potent steroid, long-term continuous use (many weeks or months) is generally discouraged due to the increased risk of local and systemic side effects. Your doctor will prescribe it for the shortest duration necessary to control your symptoms.

For sensitive areas like the face, use is typically limited to 5 days. For other areas, treatment might extend for a couple of weeks, often with breaks or tapering advised by the doctor afterwards. Always follow your prescribed treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments as recommended.

5. What should I do if I accidentally use too much Elocon? Applying too much Elocon in a single instance is unlikely to cause significant harm, but consistently using excessive amounts or applying it more frequently than prescribed increases the risk of side effects. Chronic overuse can lead to skin thinning, stretch marks, or even systemic effects if large areas are treated or occlusion is used.

If you realize you have been using too much Elocon, or if accidental ingestion occurs (especially in children), contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. While acute overdose symptoms are rare with topical application, it’s important to discuss any overuse to prevent potential long-term complications. Do not try to compensate by skipping future doses without medical guidance.

6. Is Elocon suitable for use in children? Elocon can be used in children but only when prescribed by a doctor and under strict medical supervision. Children are more susceptible to the side effects of potent topical steroids due to their higher skin surface area to body weight ratio, increasing the potential for systemic absorption and effects like HPA axis suppression or growth interference.

Therefore, in children, Elocon use must be minimized: apply the smallest effective amount, for the shortest possible duration, and avoid application under diapers or dressings, on the face (max 5 days), in skin folds, or over large body areas. Always prioritize the doctor’s specific instructions for pediatric use.

7. What are the most common side effects associated with Elocon? The most common side effects of Elocon are typically local skin reactions at the application site. These can include tingling, stinging, itching, burning, or dryness when the medication is first applied. Other potential local effects include inflammation of hair follicles (folliculitis), skin discoloration, increased hair growth, or acne-like bumps.

While less common, more significant side effects like skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks (striae), or spider veins (telangiectasia) can occur, especially with prolonged use, high potency, occlusion, or application to sensitive areas. Systemic side effects are rare but possible with extensive use. Report any concerning or persistent side effects to your doctor.

8. Can Elocon be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding? Using Elocon during pregnancy or while breastfeeding requires careful consideration and should only be done if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk, as decided by your doctor. There is limited data on its use in pregnant women, so caution is advised. If prescribed, use should be on small areas for a short duration.

It is unknown if mometasone furoate passes into breast milk after topical application. If used while breastfeeding, avoid applying it to the breast area to prevent the infant from ingesting it. Always consult your doctor before using Elocon if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

9. What is the difference between Elocon cream and Elocon ointment? The main difference lies in their base formulation and texture, which affects how they feel on the skin and their suitability for different types of lesions. Elocon cream is water-based, less greasy, and easily absorbed, making it suitable for weeping or oozing skin conditions and often preferred for use during the day or in hairy areas.

Elocon ointment is oil-based, thicker, more moisturizing, and creates a slight barrier (occlusion) on the skin, enhancing penetration of the active ingredient. It is generally better for dry, thick, or scaly skin conditions (lichenified lesions). Both contain the same active ingredient (mometasone furoate 0.1%) and potency.

10. Do I need a prescription to obtain Elocon? Yes, Elocon cream and Elocon ointment are prescription-only medications in most countries. Due to their potency and potential for side effects if used inappropriately, a diagnosis and prescription from a qualified healthcare professional (like a doctor or dermatologist) are required to obtain them.

Self-treating with potent corticosteroids without medical guidance can be risky. A doctor needs to assess your condition, determine if Elocon is the appropriate treatment, and provide instructions on how to use it safely and effectively. Never use Elocon obtained without a valid prescription for your specific condition.

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Disclaimer: This article provides expanded information based on the patient leaflet for Elocon. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.