Uses
This combination medication is used to treat a variety of skin conditions (including eczema, fungal skin infections such as ringworm/athlete's foot/jock itch). This product contains 2 medications. Clioquinol (also known as iodochlorhydroxyquin) is an antibiotic that works by preventing the growth of fungus/bacteria. Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that works by reducing the swelling, redness, and itching that occurs in the affected skin.
This medication should not be used by children younger than 2 years.
How To Use
Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and thoroughly dry the area to be treated. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area and gently rub in as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times daily. Wash your hands after using unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. Do not wrap, cover, or bandage the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.
Do not apply the medication in the eyes, nose, mouth, or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.
Do not apply more often or use longer than prescribed. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
Dry skin may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
- skin irritation/burning
- extreme hair growth
- skin thinning/discoloration
- acne
- stretch marks
- small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a new infection. Contact your doctor if you notice any new symptoms on the skin.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to clioquinol or hydrocortisone; or to other 8-hydroxyquinolines (such as iodoquinol); or to other corticosteroids (such as triamcinolone); or to iodine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- tuberculosis of the skin
- viral skin/eye infections (such as herpes, chickenpox)
- immune system problems
- poor blood circulation
This medication may stain clothes, skin, nails, or hair. Use cautiously to avoid contact with clothes, nails, or hair.
Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as certain thyroid function tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
Overdose
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another skin condition unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that case.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
