Metosyn

Metosyn contains fluocinonide, a potent topical corticosteroid used to treat severe inflammatory skin conditions that have not responded to less potent steroids.

It is prescribed for conditions such as severe eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, and discoid lupus erythematosus.

Fluocinonide is a fluorinated steroid with high anti-inflammatory potency, positioned between moderately potent and very potent on the corticosteroid potency scale.

Fluocinonide works by suppressing the inflammatory mediators and immune cells responsible for the redness, swelling, itching, and thickening seen in chronic dermatological conditions.

By reducing inflammation effectively, it can break the itch-scratch cycle that perpetuates many skin conditions and allow the skin to heal.

Metosyn is available as a cream and an ointment. The cream is suitable for moist or acutely inflamed areas, while the ointment is better for dry, thickened, or scaly skin.

Due to its potent nature, Metosyn is reserved for use under medical supervision and for the shortest duration necessary to bring a flare under control.

Apply a thin layer of Metosyn cream or ointment to the affected area once or twice daily. Rub in gently until absorbed. Wash your hands after application unless treating the hands.

Do not use occlusive dressings over the treated area unless directed by your prescriber, as this increases steroid absorption.

Once the condition improves, your prescriber will step down to a less potent steroid for maintenance. Abrupt cessation after prolonged use is discouraged, as rebound flares may occur.

Apply thinly to affected areas once or twice daily. Treatment duration should not normally exceed two to four weeks without medical review. Use the minimum quantity needed to control symptoms.

For large body surface area involvement, the total weekly amount should be carefully monitored to minimise systemic absorption.

In children, treatment should be limited and supervised by a specialist.

Common local side effects with short courses include mild burning or stinging on application.

Prolonged or excessive use may lead to skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks (striae), visible blood vessels (telangiectasia), easy bruising, and acneiform eruptions.

Perioral dermatitis may develop if used on the face.

Systemic effects, including adrenal suppression, are uncommon with recommended use but may occur with prolonged application to large areas or under occlusion.

Report any changes in skin appearance to your prescriber.

Metosyn is a potent corticosteroid and should not be used on the face, groin, axillae, or genital area unless specifically prescribed for these sites and for short durations only.

Do not use on infected skin without concurrent antimicrobial treatment. Children are more susceptible to systemic effects and should be treated under specialist care.

If the condition worsens or does not improve within two weeks, reassessment is needed. Gradually taper use rather than stopping abruptly after prolonged courses to avoid rebound flares.

Metosyn is contraindicated in patients with untreated bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections, rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, pruritus without inflammation, and hypersensitivity to fluocinonide or any excipient.

It should not be used for nappy rash or in children under one year.