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What Is Lidex?

This medication belongs to the family of medications called corticosteroids. It is generally used to treat skin rashes that are inflamed, itchy, or caused by allergies. It should not be used to treat skin rashes that have become infected. It works by reducing inflammation of the skin. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are being given this medication, make sure to speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How to use Lidex Cream

Use this medication on the skin only and nowhere else. Do not use it on the face, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Wash and dry your hands and before applying the medication, clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected area and gently rub in, usually 2-4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Do not cover, bandage, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. If used in the diaper area on an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants.

After applying the medication, wash your hands unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. When applying this medication near the eyes, avoid getting it in the eyes as this may worsen or cause glaucoma. Also, avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get the medication in these areas, rinse with plenty of water.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine is different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so. The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical issue for which you are using Lidex.

What side effects are possible with this medication?

Many medications can cause side effects. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by about 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own.

Make sure to contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

  • burning, dryness, irritation, itching, or redness of skin
  • increased redness or scaling of skin sores
  • skin rash

Before using Lidex, always tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: poor blood circulation, immune system problems. Do not use if there is an infection or sore present in the area to be treated.