Derma-Smoothe FS
(fluocinolone acetonide)Dosage & Administration
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.
Derma-Smoothe FS Prescribing Information
Adult Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is indicated for the topical treatment of atopic dermatitis in adult patients.
Pediatric Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is indicated for the topical treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in pediatric patients, 3 months and older for up to 4 weeks. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients younger than 3 months of age have not been established.
Limitations of Use
Apply the least amount of Derma-Smoothe/FS® needed to cover the affected areas. As with other corticosteroids, Derma-Smoothe/FS® should be discontinued when control of disease is achieved. Contact the physician if no improvement is seen within 2 weeks.
Derma-Smoothe/FS® should not be applied to the diaper area; diapers or plastic pants may constitute occlusive use.
Derma-Smoothe/FS® should not be used on the face, axillae, or groin unless directed by the physician. Application to intertriginous areas should be avoided due to the increased risk of local adverse reactions. [see Adverse Reactions (6) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.
The dosing of Derma-Smoothe/FS® is different for adult and pediatric patients.
Adult Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Apply Derma-Smoothe/FS® as a thin film to the affected areas three times daily.
Pediatric Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Moisten skin and apply Derma-Smoothe/FS® as a thin film to the affected areas twice daily for up to four weeks.
Derma-Smoothe/FS® (fluocinolone acetonide), Topical Oil, 0.01% (Body Oil) is supplied in bottles containing 4 fluid ounces.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C: Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically at relatively low dosage levels. Some corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic after dermal application in laboratory animals.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women on teratogenic effects from Derma-Smoothe/FS®. Therefore, Derma-Smoothe/FS® should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Nursing Mothers
Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in human milk.
Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Derma-Smoothe/FS® is administered to a nursing woman.
Pediatric Use
8.4.1 Systemic Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients
HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and intracranial hypertension have been reported in children receiving topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression in children include linear growth retardation, delayed weight gain, low plasma cortisol levels, and subnormal response to ACTH stimulation. Manifestations of intracranial hypertension include bulging fontanelles, headaches, and bilateral papilledema.
Because of a higher ratio of skin surface area to body mass, children are at a greater risk for systemic adverse reactions than are adults when treated with topical corticosteroids. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
8.4.2 Evaluation in Peanut-Sensitive Pediatric Subjects
A clinical study was conducted to assess the safety of Derma-Smoothe/FS®, which contains refined peanut oil, on subjects with known peanut allergies. The study enrolled 13 subjects with atopic dermatitis, 6 to 17 years of age. Of the 13 subjects, 9 were Radioallergosorbent Test (RAST) positive to peanuts and 4 had no peanut sensitivity (controls). The study evaluated the subjects' responses to both prick test and patch test utilizing peanut oil NF, Derma-Smoothe/FS® and histamine/saline controls. Subjects were also treated with Derma-Smoothe/FS® twice daily for 7 days. Prick test and patch test results for all 13 patients were negative to Derma-Smoothe/FS® and the refined peanut oil. One of the 9 peanut-sensitive patients experienced an exacerbation of atopic dermatitis after 5 days of Derma-Smoothe/FS®. The bulk peanut oil NF, used in Derma-Smoothe/FS® is heated at 475°F for at least 15 minutes, which should provide for adequate decomposition of allergenic proteins. [See Description (11)]
8.4.3 Evaluation in Pediatric Subjects 2 to 6 years old
Open-label safety studies were conducted on 33 children (20 subjects ages 2 to 6 years, 13 subjects ages 7 to 12 years) with moderate to severe stable atopic dermatitis. Subjects were treated with Derma-Smoothe/FS® twice daily for 4 weeks. Baseline body surface area involvement was 50% to 75% in 15 subjects and greater than 75% in 18 subjects. Morning pre-stimulation cortisol and post-ACTH stimulation cortisol levels were obtained in each subject at the beginning of the trial and at the end of 4 weeks of treatment. At the end of treatment, 4 out of 18 subjects aged 2 to 5 years showed low pre-stimulation cortisol levels (3.2 to 6.6 µg/dL; normal: cortisol > 7µg/dL) but all had normal responses to 0.25 mg of ACTH stimulation (cortisol > 18 µg/dL).
8.4.4 Evaluation in Pediatric Subjects 3 months to 2 years old
An open-label safety study was conducted in 29 children (7 subjects ages 3 to 6 months, 7 subjects ages > 6 to 12 months and 15 subjects ages > 12 months to 2 years of age) to assess the HPA axis by ACTH stimulation testing following use of Derma-Smoothe/FS® twice daily for 4 weeks. All subjects had moderate to severe atopic dermatitis with disease involvement on at least 20% body surface area. Baseline body surface area involvement was 50% to 75% in 11 subjects and greater than 75% in 7 subjects. Morning pre-stimulation and post-ACTH stimulation cortisol levels were obtained in each subject at the beginning of the trial and at the end of 4 weeks of treatment. All subjects had normal responses to 0.125 mg of ACTH stimulation (cortisol > 18 µg/dL).
None.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Suppression
Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids can produce reversible hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression with the potential for glucocorticosteroid insufficiency. Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria can also be produced by systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids.
Because of the potential for systemic absorption, use of topical corticosteroids may require that patients be periodically evaluated for HPA axis suppression. The ACTH stimulation test may be helpful in evaluating patients for HPA axis suppression.
If HPA axis suppression is documented, an attempt should be made to withdraw the drug, to reduce the frequency of application, or to substitute a less potent corticosteroid. Recovery of HPA axis function is generally prompt upon discontinuation of topical corticosteroids.
Conditions which increase systemic absorption include the use of more potent corticosteroids, use over large surface areas, use over prolonged periods, and use of occlusive dressings. Manifestations of adrenal insufficiency may require supplemental systemic corticosteroids.
Children may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity from equivalent doses due to their larger skin surface to body mass ratios. [See Use in Specific Populations (8.4)]
Local Adverse Reactions with Topical Corticosteroids
Local adverse reactions may occur with use of topical corticosteroids and may be more likely to occur with occlusive use, prolonged use or use of higher potency corticosteroids. Some local adverse reactions may be irreversible. Reactions may include atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, acneiform eruptions, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, secondary infection, and miliaria. [See Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
Allergic Contact Dermatitis with Topical Corticosteroids
Allergic contact dermatitis to any component of topical corticosteroids is usually diagnosed by a failure to heal rather than a clinical exacerbation. Clinical diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis can be confirmed by patch testing.
Concomitant Skin Infections
Concomitant skin infections should be treated with an appropriate antimicrobial agent. If the infection persists unchanged, Derma-Smoothe/FS® should be discontinued until the infection has been adequately treated.
Use in Peanut-Sensitive Individuals
Physicians should use caution in prescribing Derma-Smoothe/FS® for peanut-sensitive individuals. [See Description (11)]
Should signs of hypersensitivity present (wheal and flare reactions, pruritus, or other manifestations), or should disease exacerbations occur, Derma-Smoothe/FS® should be discontinued immediately and appropriate therapy instituted.
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Clinical Studies Experience: Evaluation of Facial Use in Pediatric Subjects
An open-label study was conducted in 58 children with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (2 to 12 years old) to evaluate the safety of Derma-Smoothe/FS® when applied to the face twice daily for 4 weeks. The following adverse reactions were reported:
| Adverse Reaction (AR) * | # of subjects (%) | Day 14 | Day 28 † | Day 56 ‡ |
| ||||
| Any AE | 15 (26) | 6 (10) | 7 (12) | 7 (12) |
| Telangiectasia | 5 (9) | 3 (5) | 4 (7) | 2 (4) |
| Erythema | 3 (5) | 3 (5) | ||
| Itching | 3 (5) | 3 (5) | ||
| Irritation | 3 (5) | 3 (5) | ||
| Burning | 3 (5) | 3 (5) | ||
| Hypopigmentation | 2 (4) | 2 (4) | ||
| Shiny skin | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Secondary atopic dermatitis | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Papules and pustules | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Keratosis pilaris | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Folliculitis | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Facial herpes simplex | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Acneiform eruption | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
| Ear infection | 1 (2) | 1 (2) | ||
Clinical Studies Experience: Evaluation in Pediatric Subjects 3 months to 2 years old
An open-label safety study was conducted in 29 children to assess the HPA axis by ACTH stimulation testing following use of Derma-Smoothe/FS® twice daily for 4 weeks. The following adverse reactions were reported in the study [See Use in Specific Populations (8.4)];
| Adverse Reaction | # of subjects (%) |
| |
| Diarrhea | 1 (3) |
| Vomiting | 1 (3) |
| Pyrexia | 3 (10) |
| Abscess | 1 (3) |
| Molluscum | 1 (3) |
| Nasopharyngitis | 2 (7) |
| URI | 1 (3) |
| Otitis media | 1 (3) |
| Cough | 6 (20) |
| Rhinorrhea | 4 (13) |
| Atopic dermatitis | 1 (3) |
| Eczema | 1 (3) |
| Hyperpigmentation | 1 (3) |
| Hypopigmentation | 2 (7) |
| Rash | 1 (3) |
Derma-Smoothe/FS® (fluocinolone acetonide), Topical Oil, 0.01% (Body Oil) contains fluocinolone acetonide [(6α, 11β, 16α)-6,9-difluoro-11,21-dihydroxy-16,17 [(1-methylethylidene)bis(oxy)]-pregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione, cyclic 16,17 acetal with acetone], a synthetic corticosteroid for topical dermatologic use.
This formulation is also marketed as Derma-Smoothe/FS® (fluocinolone acetonide), Topical Oil, 0.01% (Scalp Oil) for use with shower caps for treatment of scalp psoriasis in adults, and as fluocinolone acetonide oil, 0.01% for treatment of chronic eczematous external otitis. Chemically, fluocinolone acetonide is C24 H30 F2 O6. It has the following structural formula:
Fluocinolone acetonide in Derma-Smoothe/FS® has a molecular weight of 452.50. It is a white crystalline powder that is odorless, stable in light, and melts at 270°C with decomposition; soluble in alcohol, acetone and methanol; slightly soluble in chloroform; insoluble in water.
Each gram of Derma-Smoothe/FS® contains approximately 0.11 mg of fluocinolone acetonide in a blend of oils, which contains isopropyl alcohol, isopropyl myristate, light mineral oil, oleth-2, refined peanut oil NF and fragrances.
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is formulated with 48% refined peanut oil NF. The peanut oil used in Derma-Smoothe/FS® is tested for peanut proteins through amino acid analysis which can detect the quantity of amino acids to below 0.5 parts per million.
Mechanism of Action
Like other topical corticosteroids, fluocinolone acetonide has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.
Pharmacokinetics
Topical corticosteroids can be absorbed from intact healthy skin. The extent of percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids is determined by many factors, including the product formulation and the integrity of the epidermal barrier. Occlusion, inflammation and/or other disease processes in the skin may increase percutaneous absorption.
The use of pharmacodynamic endpoints for assessing the systemic exposure of topical corticosteroids may be necessary due to the fact that circulating levels are often below the level of detection. Once absorbed through the skin, topical corticosteroids are metabolized primarily in the liver, and are then excreted by the kidneys. Some corticosteroids and their metabolites are also excreted in the bile.
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is in the low to medium range of potency as compared with other topical corticosteroids in vasoconstrictor studies.
Carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, impairment of fertility
Long-term animal studies have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential or the effect on fertility of Derma-Smoothe/FS®. Studies have not been performed to evaluate the mutagenic potential of fluocinolone acetonide, the active ingredient in Derma-Smoothe/FS®. Some corticosteroids have been found to be genotoxic in various genotoxicity tests (i.e. the in vitro human peripheral blood lymphocyte chromosome aberration assay with metabolic activation, the in vivo mouse bone marrow micro nucleus assay, the Chinese hamster micronucleus test, and the in vitro mouse lymphoma gene mutation assay).
Derma-Smoothe/FS® is supplied in bottles containing 4 fluid ounces. It is labeled as Body Oil (NDC # 68791-101-04).
Storage: Store at 25°C (68°-77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Mechanism of Action
Like other topical corticosteroids, fluocinolone acetonide has anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.