Lidex cream is in a class of medicines called corticosteroids (a “steroid”). It works by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and itching. It is used for the skin to treat inflammation and itching caused by plaque psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema) or other skin conditions.

Lidex can relieve symptoms such as:

• pain,
• itching,
• redness,
• crusting,
• and scaling.

It can also be effective for local symptoms due to severe insect bites, skin allergies or rashes.

Lidex cream usually is applied one to four times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use Lidex cream topical exactly as directed. 

• Your skin condition should improve during the first two weeks of your treatment. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve during this time.
• Apply a small amount of the Lidex cream to cover the affected skin area with a thin film and rub it in gently. Be sure to wash your hands immediately afterward.
• Do not wrap or bandage the treated area unless your doctor tells you to. Only apply other skin preparations or products to the treated area after talking with your doctor. Such use may increase side effects.
• Call your doctor if the treated area worsens or if burning, swelling, or oozing of pus develops. Only discontinue treatment abruptly after talking to your doctor.

Before using Lidex cream, tell your doctor and pharmacist: 

• If you are having surgery, including dental surgery,
• Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients,
• You are taking prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements or plan to take them.
• Be sure to mention the following: other corticosteroid medications and other topical medications.
• If you are allergic to it, other medications or any ingredients in fluocinonide topical products.
• Tell your doctor if you have an infection, skin problems, or have ever had diabetes, liver disease, or Cushing's syndrome.
• If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only minor side effects. The common side effects of Lidex cream include:

• Burning or stinging.
• Dry skin.
• Itching.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor.

How do you store and discard the Lidex cream?

• Store at room temperature.
• Protect from heat.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist may be drug take-back programs in your area.

What do you do if you miss a dose of Lidex cream?

Put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal time.
Do not put on two doses at the same time or extra doses.

What side effects can Lidex cream cause?

• Burning, stinging, itching, or dryness of treated skin,
• Redness or crusting around your hair follicles,
• Stretch marks,
• Spider veins, and 
• Acne may occur.