GeneralAs with any antibacterial preparation, prolonged use may result
in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi. Appropriate measures
should be taken if this occurs. Use of steroids on infected areas should be
supervised with care as anti-inflammatory steroids may encourage spread of
infection. If this occurs, steroid therapy should be stopped and appropriate
anti-bacterial drugs used. Generalized dermatological conditions may require
systemic corticosteroid therapy.
Signs and symptoms of exogenous hyperadrenocorticism can occur with the use
of topical corticosteroids, including adrenal suppression. Systemic absorption
of topically applied steroids will be increased if extensive body surface areas
are treated or if occlusive dressings are used. Under these circumstances,
suitable precautions should be taken when long-term use is anticipated.
Specifically, sufficient percutaneous absorption of hydrocortisone can occur
in pediatric patients during prolonged use to cause cessation of growth, as well
as other systemic signs and symptoms of hyperadrenocorticism.
Information for Patients
If redness, irritation, swelling or pain persists or increases,
discontinue use and notify physician. Do not use in the eyes.
Laboratory Tests
Systemic effects of excessive levels of hydrocortisone may
include a reduction in the number of circulating eosinophils and a decrease in
urinary excretion of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of
Fertility
Longterm studies in animals (rats, rabbits, mice) showed no
evidence of carcinogenicity attributable to oral administration of
corticosteroids.
Pregnancy
Teratogenic
EffectsPregnancy Category C. Corticosteroids have been shown to be
teratogenic in rabbits when applied topically at concentrations of 0.5% on days
6 to 18 of gestation and in mice when applied topically at a concentration of
15% on days 10 to 13 of gestation. There are no adequate and well-controlled
studies in pregnant women. Corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only
if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Nursing Mothers
Hydrocortisone acetate appears in human milk following oral
administration of the drug. Since systemic absorption of hydrocortisone may
occur when applied topically, caution should be exercised when CORTISPORIN Cream
is used by a nursing woman.
Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of Cortisporin Cream did not include sufficient
numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond
differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not
identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In
general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually
starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of
decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or
other drug therapy.
Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been
established (see PRECAUTIONS: General).