Synalar is available in both cream and ointment form. Both versions of the medication include the corticosteroid flucinolone acetonide. This topical corticosteroid cream works by reducing the reaction that your skin has to certain irritants. Often, inflammation in the skin happens when an allergic reaction, or another condition like dermatitis causes substances to be released in your body that cause your blood vessels to widen. When the blood vessels widen, the irritated area becomes painful, red, swollen and often itchy too. Synalar and other corticosteroids fight back against the problem of inflammation by acting inside of your skin cells to reduce the release of inflammatory substances. This process reduces the itching, swelling and redness of skin. In some cases, Synalar can also make you less likely to scratch the irritated skin, so you’re not as likely to cause further discomfort.
Synalar
Synalar medication is a hormonal treatment that works by using the active ingredient fluocinolone acetonide. As a form of topical corticosteroid, Synalar helps to reduce some of the inflammation and discomfort common among conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
What is Synalar?
Synalar is available in both cream and ointment form. Both versions of the medication include the corticosteroid flucinolone acetonide. This topical corticosteroid cream works by reducing the reaction that your skin has to certain irritants. Often, inflammation in the skin happens when an allergic reaction, or another condition like dermatitis causes substances to be released in your body that cause your blood vessels to widen. When the blood vessels widen, the irritated area becomes painful, red, swollen and often itchy too.
Synalar and other corticosteroids fight back against the problem of inflammation by acting inside of your skin cells to reduce the release of inflammatory substances. This process reduces the itching, swelling and redness of skin. In some cases, Synalar can also make you less likely to scratch the irritated skin, so you’re not as likely to cause further discomfort.
When is Synalar used?
Synalar is a medication prescribed for people with skin conditions that cause pain, inflammation, itching and discomfort. In some cases, this medication can also be helpful for reducing unsightly redness and discoloration in the skin.
Synalar is a form of topical corticosteroid, also known as an adrenal cortex hormone. The medication belongs to a wide family of corticosteroids used for the treatment of issues like eczema, allergic reactions, and dermatitis. Synalar is only available to purchase with a prescription from a registered consultant or professional. This medication is a medium-strength form of corticosteroid.
Unlike other topical corticosteroids, Synalar is sometimes suitable for moist and weeping areas of skin, while the ointment is intended for dry and scaly patches of skin.
How do you use Synalar?
It is important to follow the instructions that come in the medication leaflet provided with your Synalar ointment or cream. If your consultant gives you any advice on how to use the substance, make sure that you follow it closely. Synalar is a topical corticosteroid, which means that you apply it directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Crucially, Synalar is not intended for use on the groin, underarms or face, unless you are advised otherwise by a doctor or medical professional.
Before using Synalar, read through the instructions on the patient leaflet, and wash your hands thoroughly. It may also be a good idea to wash the area of skin you will be applying the ointment or cream to. Put a small amount of the medication on your fingers and rub it into the skin gently, applying a thin layer to all areas of inflammation. Avoid covering the affected area with any clothing or going in the bath or shower within an hour of applying the substance.
Wash your hands after using Synalar to make sure that you don’t spread it into any other parts of your body. Do not apply this medication near the eyes, keep it as far away from your actual eyeballs as possible, as this substance can worsen and cause glaucoma. Avoid getting Synalar into the mouth or nose. If you do get this medication into any of these areas, rinse the space thoroughly with water.
Do not use Synalar for any longer than your consultant recommends and avoid using more ointment than prescribed. Applying a larger amount of Synalar will increase your chances of experiencing side effects.
What dosages are there?
Your consultant will suggest the dosage that is right for you based on your condition. Synalar comes in ointments and creams often containing 0.025% fluocinolone acetonide. Unless advised otherwise, the recommended dose for adults and children over the age of 1 is one thin layer of cream or ointment applied twice a day to the affected area for a short time.
You may need to take Synalar for up to seven years to get the full benefits of the treatment. Continue taking this medication for as long as it has been prescribed for you and no longer. If you are using Synalar on your face, do not use it for longer than 5 days in a row.
What are the side effects of Synalar?
As a medium-strength corticosteroid, Synalar is usually well-tolerated by many patients with skin conditions. However, all substances, including topical medications can sometimes have side effects. Just because a side effect is listed here doesn’t mean that you will necessarily have that condition. If you do have any mild side effects for an extended period of time, or you think that your problem is worsening after using Synalar, contact a pharmacist or medical professional.
The most common side effects of Synalar often occur when your skin is still getting used to the new substance, during the first day or two of application. After applying Synalar to your affected areas, you might notice burning, irritation, itching, or dryness on the application site. This effects should begin to diminish as you continue with your course of treatment.
In rare circumstances, Synalar can sometimes cause more severe side effects, such as stretchmarks, thinning of the skin, and sudden acne. You might also notice the present of hair bumps on your skin, or unwanted hair growth. If any of these symptoms happen to you, make sure that you contact a medical professional immediately for advice on what to do next.
Although Synalar can help to treat a lot of conditions, including skin inflammation caused by eczema and dermatitis, it should not be used if you have a serious skin infection. Synalar can make infections worse, so contact your doctor if you notice swelling, irritation and redness that worsens after applying the cream. In rare circumstances, Synalar may also be absorbed through the skin into the blood stream, which can lead to side effects common to being exposed to higher doses of corticosteroids.
Corticosteroid exposure side effects are more common in children and in people who take Synalar for longer periods of time. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice issues like:
- Headaches;
- Weight loss;
- Sudden increased urination;
- Excessive thirst;
- Vision problems;
- Swelling in the feet of ankles;
- Extreme tiredness or exhaustion.
While it is rare for a very serious allergic reaction to occur when using Synalar, you should seek immediate attention from an emergency medical professional if you notice signs that you are having an allergic reaction. These symptoms might include the presence of a sudden rash, swelling of the tongue, face, or throat, itching, and severe dizziness.
When shouldn't you use Synalar?
Before using any medication, it’s important to speak to professional about your medical background so that you can be given the advice that’s suitable for your history and they can also examine your rash and advise if this treatment is appropriate. Some people will be predisposed to react poorly to the ingredients in Synalar. Before you use this ointment or any similar creams containing corticosteroids, tell your consultant if you have ever had any allergic reactions to corticosteroids before like hydrocortisone or prednisone.
It’s important to tell your consultant about any other allergies that you might have too, as this medication can include inactive ingredients which cause severe problems to people with allergies. Before using this medication, make sur that your consultant is aware of your medical history, particularly if you have ever had any problems with diabetes, blood circulation problems, or issues with your immune system. Do not use Synalar if you have an infection or sore in the area that needs to be treated.
In rare circumstances, using corticosteroid substances like Synalar over larger areas of skin and longer periods of time can lead to side-effects caused by overexposure to corticosteroids. One of these side effects could be a reduced ability to respond well to physical sources of stress. Therefore, before you have any emergency treatments or surgery when using Synalar make sure that you tell your dentist or doctor that you are using this medication. You will also need to tell all medical professionals if you have used this substance in the past few months.
Although it is very unlikely, medications that contain corticosteroids, like Synalar can sometimes slow down the growth of a child if they are used for extended periods of time. You may need to see a doctor to ensure that your child’s height can be checked. During pregnancy, it is also not certain whether this medication is safe to use. Usually, doctors will only recommend using Synalar when it is clearly need. It is not certain whether Synalar passes into breast milk when applied to the skin.
Does Synalar interact with any other medications?
Medication interactions can cause dangerous side effects in some cases, including severe allergic reactions and other problems. Make sure that your consultant is aware of any other substances that you might be taking alongside Synalar, including herbal substances, supplements, and other drugs.
Before using this medication, make sure that your consultant is aware of any other corticosteroids that you are taking, either in oral or topical form. Drugs that lower the immune system might not be suitable to take with Synalar.
Where can you buy Synalar?
Synalar is available with a prescription from trusted online consultants in the EU. You will need to complete a consultation before getting Synalar to ensure that this medication is right for you. If you have a new condition, it is important to see your own doctor to confirm the diagnosis and need for treatment in the first instance.
Can you get Synalar without a prescription?
It is not possible to obtain Synalar or other similar topical corticosteroids without a prescription or medical consultation at this time. A professional will need to assess your condition to ensure that Synalar is a suitable treatment for your needs.
Sources
Drugs.com, online, 2019, "Synalar", [Accessed 20th of November 2019] Available on: https://www.drugs.com/synalar.html
John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP, RxList, 2016, “Synalar” [Accessed 20th of November 2019] Available on: https://www.rxlist.com/synalar-side-effects-drug-center.htm
MPR, Medimetriks Pharmaceuticals Inc, 2019, "Synalar Ointment RX", [Accessed 20th of November 2019] Available on: https://www.empr.com/drug/synalar-ointment/