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Lidex
Available by prescription only, Lidex is a steroid used to treat various skin conditions, such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. This medicine works by reducing inflammation and suppressing an overactive immune system. It comes in a variety of forms and is usually applied to the affected areas of the skin two to four times daily. Side effects may include skin irritation, such as burning or itching.
Lidex® (fluocinonide) is a prescription skin medication. It comes in the form of an ointment, gel, topical solution, or cream. It belongs to a group of medications known as topical steroids and is used to treat inflammation and itching due to a wide variety of skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and allergic reactions.
(Click Lidex Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Brand-name Lidex products were made by Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation, but are no longer available. Generic versions are available and are made by various manufacturers.
Lidex is part of a group of medications known as glucocorticoids, which are a type of corticosteroid (or "steroid" for short). Although glucocorticoids have numerous effects in the body, they are used mostly for their anti-inflammatory or immune-suppressing properties. Lidex works for most conditions by decreasing inflammation or suppressing an overactive immune system.
Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with Lidex include the following:
- This medication is usually applied to the affected area(s) of the skin two to four times a day.
- Apply the medication sparingly; only a thin film is necessary.
- Use a dressing (such as a bandage) over Lidex only if your healthcare provider tells you to do so. Dressings can increase the effectiveness of the drug, but also increase the risk for side effects.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be used as prescribed.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD