Fluocinonide
Fluocinonide is a high-potency topical corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory and itchy skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and lichen planus. It works by reducing inflammation, itching, and redness by suppressing the local immune response and reducing capillary permeability in the affected skin areas.
High-potency topical corticosteroid for treating inflammatory and pruritic skin conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C05AA11
- RxNorm
- 4462
- Generic
- Fluocinonide
- Class
- atc-c05
- Brands
- Vanos
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- cream, ointment, gel, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Fluocinonide is used to treat inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, including eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, lichen planus, and lupus erythematosus. It is typically prescribed when milder corticosteroids have not been effective.
As a corticosteroid, fluocinonide works by penetrating cell membranes and binding to glucocorticoid receptors, which leads to the suppression of inflammatory mediators and immune cell activity. This reduces inflammation, itching, and vasodilation in the affected skin areas.
Fluocinonide is for external use only and should not be applied to broken or infected skin. Prolonged use on large body areas should be avoided as it may cause skin thinning (atrophy), systemic absorption, and adrenal suppression. It is generally not recommended for use on the face, groin, or underarms unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider. Use during pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy