Ultravate

Ultravate is used in topical form to relieve itching, redness, swelling and other disorders of the skin. This drug belongs to the group of medicines called corticosteroids.

This medicine is available only through your doctor's prescription. This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Ointment
• Cream

Before using Ultravate, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Your doctor will consider these risks before prescribing the drug and will inform you about them.

Following factors should be considered before taking this drug:

Allergies: If you have had an allergic reaction to this drug in the past, inform your doctor. You should also tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any other drugs or food products.

Age-specific problems: The data regarding the effects of this medicine specific to the pediatric age group is not yet available. Its safety and efficacy have not been established in children.

The studies specific to the geriatric age group have not been carried out, therefore its safety and efficacy have not been established in older age group. However, geriatric population is more prone to having kidney, liver and heart problems.

Drug Interactions: Certain drugs should not be used together because they can interact inside the body which can have a harmful effect. On the other hand, certain drugs are allowed to be used together. So, you should tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. If there is a chance of interaction between those two drugs, the doctor may change the dose or may prescribe an alternative drug.

Furthermore, certain medications should not be taken with alcohol or tobacco, which may also result in harmful interactions. Ask your doctor about the concurrent use of this drug along with alcohol or tobacco.

You should also inform your doctor about any other medical condition you may be suffering from, especially:

• Diabetes
• Cushing's syndrome (adrenal gland disorder) 
• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
• Intracranial hypertension (increased pressure in the head)—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse
• Large sores, broken skin, or severe skin injury at the place of application—The chance of side effects may be increased
• Infection of the skin at or near the place of application
• Perioral dermatitis (skin problem)
• Rosacea (skin problem)—Should not be used in patients with these conditions

To use Ultravate properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. Avoid using this medicine on your groin, face and underarms unless advised by your doctor. Before applying:

• Always wash your hands with water and soap before and after using this medicine.
• Rub the medicine gently after applying a thin layer of it to the skin.
• Avoid applying a bandage or wrapping the skin unless advised by the doctor.

To avoid adverse effects, this drug should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not overuse or misuse this drug and do not use it longer than the recommended time. Read all the instructions mentioned in the medication guide.

Do not miss any dose. The dose of this drug varies according to the condition of each person. The number of doses per day, the time interval between the doses and the length of time you have to take the medicine depends on your condition individually and all these factors should only be determined by your healthcare provider. Follow each and every instruction of your doctor and also read the label carefully.

In case you miss one dose of this drug, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your subsequent dose, you can then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Storage: This medicine should be stored at room temperature within a closed container, away from heat, direct light, and moisture. Keep this drug out of the reach of children. Do not store expired or outdated medicines or the medicine no longer needed.

Before using Ultravate, there are some precautions you must take. It is important for your doctor to monitor the response to medicine and look for any side effects.

Therefore, regular follow-up is necessary during and after the treatment. Contact your doctor if your symptoms have not improved even after taking the full course of treatment. 

Avoid taking any other medicine unless thoroughly discussed with your doctor. Always ask your doctor before using any prescription, non-prescription or herbal medicine.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Ultravate. Although these side effects may occur only in a handful of patients but if they do occur, contact your physician immediately.

This medication is associated with following side effects:

• burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
• dry skin
• hives or welts
• blisters under the skin
• flushing or redness of the skin
• itching
• rash
• stinging
• thinning of the skin with easy bruising, especially when used on the face or where the skin folds together (e.g. between the fingers)
• unusually warm skin
• blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, or flaking of the skin
• itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of the skin
• redness and scaling around the mouth

Seek medical help instantly, if you experience any of these symptoms while on lanthanum. Also contact your health care professional immediately, if have overdosed on this drug. If any of these side effects becomes more bothersome or does not go away, contact your doctor.