GENERIC NAME: FLUOCINOLONE/TRETINOIN/HYDROQUINONE - TOPICAL (flew-oh-SIN-oh-lone/tret-ih-NO-in/hi-dro-KWIN-own)
BRAND NAME(S): Tri-Luma
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This combination medication is used to treat melasma on the face. Melasma is a condition of dark-colored, patchy areas on the skin. This medication may improve your melasma but it is not a cure. Continued exposure to some of the causes of melasma (e.g., sunlight, estrogen-type birth control hormones) may cause it to return.
HOW TO USE: Before using, gently wash your face and neck with a mild soap/cleanser. Rinse and pat dry the skin. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area, including about one-half inch of normal appearing skin around the affected area, once daily 30 minutes before bedtime; or use as directed by your doctor. Rub the medication into the skin gently and completely. It may take up to 4 weeks to notice significant improvement. However, this medication is not recommended for long-term use (e.g., greater than 8 weeks). If you experience dry skin from using this medication, you may use a skin moisturizer to help treat this effect; it is recommended to use the moisturizer in the morning after washing your face. Avoid getting any of this medication in your mouth, nose, eyes, or broken areas of skin (e.g., sores). Severe irritation requiring medical attention may occur.
SIDE EFFECTS: Skin irritations (e.g., redness, dryness, itching, or mild burning) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: a gradual blue-black darkening of the skin (ochronosis), skin blistering or swelling. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Birth Control - There are a number of different methods of birth control to include: barrier methods, IUDs, hormonal methods, natural methods, and surgical sterilization. No birth control method, except abstinence, is considered to be 100% effective.
- Birthmarks and Other Skin Pigmentation Problems - Birthmarks and other skin pigmentation problems are caused by the body's inability to produce enough melanin. Learn how to recognize the symptoms and treatment for skin pigmentation problems on MedicineNet.com.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Specialty RSS
Interactive Slideshows