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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Corticosteroid [EPC]
Desonide is a low-potency topical corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis by reducing swelling, itching, and redness.
Name
Desonide
Raw Name
DESONIDE
Category
Corticosteroid [EPC]
Drug Count
3
Variant Count
30
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
RxCUI
204135, 349351, 197572, 103439, 669081
UNII
J280872D1O
About Desonide
Desonide is a low-potency topical corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis by reducing swelling, itching, and redness.
Detailed information about Desonide
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Desonide.
Desonide belongs to the class of medications known as topical glucocorticoids. These agents are synthetic analogs of the natural hormones produced by the adrenal cortex. The FDA first approved desonide in the early 1970s (notably under the brand name DesOwen), and it has since become available in numerous generic and branded formulations, including creams, ointments, lotions, gels, and foams. Because it lacks a fluorine atom in its chemical structure, it generally carries a lower risk of certain local side effects, such as skin thinning (atrophy), compared to fluorinated steroids like betamethasone or clobetasol.
At the molecular level, desonide functions as a corticosteroid hormone receptor agonist. When applied topically, the medication penetrates the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin) and enters the cytoplasm of keratinocytes and other inflammatory cells. Once inside the cell, desonide binds to specific cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors (GR). This binding triggers a conformational change that allows the receptor-steroid complex to translocate into the cell nucleus.
Inside the nucleus, the complex binds to glucocorticoid response elements (GREs) on the DNA. This process, known as transactivation, stimulates the production of anti-inflammatory proteins like lipocortin-1 (annexin A1). Lipocortin-1 inhibits the enzyme phospholipase A2, which is responsible for releasing arachidonic acid from cell membranes. By blocking arachidonic acid release, desonide prevents the formation of potent inflammatory mediators, including prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Additionally, desonide engages in transrepression, where it inhibits the activity of pro-inflammatory transcription factors such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1). This dual action effectively suppresses the production of cytokines (like IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-alpha) and chemokines, leading to a significant reduction in skin redness, swelling, and itching.
The extent of percutaneous (through the skin) absorption of desonide is determined by several factors, including the vehicle (cream vs. ointment), the integrity of the epidermal barrier, and the use of occlusive dressings. On intact, healthy skin, systemic absorption is minimal. However, in conditions like atopic dermatitis where the skin barrier is compromised, or when applied to thin-skinned areas (eyelids, genitals), absorption increases. Occlusion (covering the area with plastic wrap or bandages) can increase absorption by up to 10-fold, potentially leading to systemic effects.
Once absorbed into the systemic circulation, corticosteroids like desonide are distributed throughout the body. They are highly protein-bound, primarily to albumin and corticosteroid-binding globulin (transcortin). However, for topical applications at recommended doses, the amount reaching the blood is usually insufficient to cause widespread systemic distribution in healthy adults.
If desonide is absorbed systemically, it is metabolized primarily in the liver. The chemical structure undergoes reduction and conjugation (glucuronidation or sulfation) to form inactive, water-soluble metabolites. Because desonide is non-fluorinated, its metabolic clearance is generally efficient compared to some older halogenated steroids.
The metabolites of desonide, along with small amounts of unchanged drug, are excreted primarily by the kidneys through urine. A smaller portion may be eliminated via the bile and feces. The plasma half-life of absorbed desonide is relatively short, typically ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours, though its biological effect on the skin lasts much longer due to its high affinity for local receptors.
Desonide is FDA-approved for the management of various inflammatory skin conditions. These include:
Desonide is available in a 0.05% concentration across several different vehicles, each suited for specific skin types and body locations:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Desonide is right for your specific condition. The choice of vehicle (cream vs. ointment) is often as important as the medication itself in achieving clinical success.
For most inflammatory dermatoses, the standard adult dosage of Desonide (0.05%) involves applying a thin film to the affected skin areas two to four times daily. The frequency depends on the severity of the condition and the specific instructions provided by your dermatologist.
Desonide is one of the few corticosteroids approved for use in pediatric patients as young as 3 months old (specifically the hydrogel and foam formulations, though this varies by brand).
Since desonide is applied topically and systemic absorption is generally low, no specific dosage adjustments are typically required for patients with kidney disease. However, if used over very large surface areas for prolonged periods, caution is advised.
Because absorbed desonide is metabolized by the liver, patients with severe hepatic failure should be monitored if using large quantities of the medication, though systemic toxicity remains rare with topical use.
Older adults often have thinner, more fragile skin (atrophy). Healthcare providers may recommend less frequent application or a shorter course of treatment to prevent further skin thinning or bruising (purpura).
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not apply extra medication to make up for a missed dose, as this increases the risk of local skin irritation.
Acute overdose from a single topical application is highly unlikely. However, chronic overuse—using too much medication over too large an area for too long—can lead to systemic absorption.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or stop using the medication abruptly without medical guidance, as some conditions may worsen if the steroid is stopped too quickly.
Most patients tolerate desonide well, but local reactions at the site of application are the most frequently reported issues. These typically occur shortly after application and may include:
These effects may occur with more frequent use or in sensitive individuals:
Rare but documented local reactions include:
While rare with a low-potency steroid like desonide, systemic absorption can lead to serious complications.
> Warning: Stop taking Desonide and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
Prolonged use of desonide (typically longer than 4 to 8 weeks) can lead to permanent or semi-permanent skin changes:
No FDA black box warnings are currently issued for Desonide. It is generally considered one of the safer topical corticosteroids when used as directed. However, the absence of a black box warning does not mean the drug is without risk; users must adhere to the prescribed duration and frequency to avoid the complications listed above.
Report any unusual symptoms or persistent skin changes to your healthcare provider immediately. Monitoring by a dermatologist is recommended for any patient requiring long-term steroid therapy.
Desonide is for external use only. It should never be taken by mouth, applied to the eyes, or inserted into the vagina or rectum. Patients must be aware that topical steroids are absorbed through the skin and can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting internal organs if used improperly. This risk is highest when the medication is used on large areas, for long periods, or under occlusion (bandages).
No FDA black box warnings for Desonide.
For most patients using desonide for short periods, routine lab tests are not necessary. However, for those using large amounts or treating children, healthcare providers may monitor:
Desonide is applied topically and does not typically cross the blood-brain barrier in amounts that would cause sedation or cognitive impairment. There are no restrictions on driving or operating machinery while using this medication.
There are no known direct interactions between alcohol consumption and topical desonide use. However, alcohol can sometimes trigger skin flushing or worsen certain types of dermatitis (like seborrheic dermatitis) in some individuals. Discuss your alcohol intake with your doctor if you notice your skin condition flares after drinking.
Do not stop using desonide abruptly if you have been using it for more than two weeks. Sudden discontinuation can lead to a 'rebound' effect, where the original skin condition returns more severely than before. Your doctor will likely instruct you to 'taper' the medication by applying it less frequently (e.g., moving from twice daily to once daily, then every other day) before stopping completely.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, including any history of cataracts, glaucoma, or circulation problems, with your healthcare provider before starting Desonide.
There are no specific drugs that are absolutely contraindicated for use with topical desonide. However, you should never use two different topical corticosteroids (e.g., desonide and hydrocortisone) on the same skin area simultaneously unless specifically directed by a dermatologist. This increases the risk of skin thinning and systemic absorption without necessarily improving the clinical outcome.
While systemic interactions are rare, they can occur if desonide is absorbed in significant quantities:
There are no known significant interactions between topical desonide and specific foods. Unlike oral steroids, desonide is not affected by dietary intake of grapefruit or dairy. However, maintaining a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet may support overall skin health and the management of conditions like eczema.
Desonide may interfere with the results of certain medical tests if absorbed systemically:
For each major interaction, the management strategy involves:
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including those applied to the skin.
Desonide must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis by a physician include:
Patients who have had an allergic reaction to other corticosteroids, particularly those in the same structural class (non-fluorinated Group VI steroids like alclometasone), may also react to desonide. This is known as cross-sensitivity. Always inform your doctor if you have ever had a 'rash from a rash cream.'
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any current skin infections, before prescribing Desonide.
Desonide is classified under FDA Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus (often teratogenicity like cleft palate when given systemically at high doses), but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans.
It is not known whether topical application of desonide results in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. However, systemic corticosteroids are secreted into breast milk.
Pediatric patients are at a significantly higher risk for HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than adults due to their higher skin surface area-to-body weight ratio.
Clinical studies of desonide did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
No specific dosage adjustments are provided in the manufacturer's labeling for patients with renal impairment. However, since the kidneys excrete absorbed metabolites, patients with end-stage renal disease should be monitored for systemic effects if using large quantities.
Patients with significant liver dysfunction may have a reduced ability to metabolize absorbed desonide. While topical use is generally safe, healthcare providers should exercise caution when treating large surface areas in patients with Child-Pugh Class C hepatic impairment.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment to ensure the safest possible treatment plan.
Desonide is a low-potency corticosteroid that diffuses across cell membranes and binds with high affinity to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors. The resulting steroid-receptor complex moves into the nucleus, where it binds to DNA and modulates gene expression. Specifically, it induces the synthesis of lipocortins (phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins). By inhibiting phospholipase A2, desonide prevents the release of arachidonic acid, the precursor to inflammatory eicosanoids like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Furthermore, it suppresses the expression of adhesion molecules on endothelial cells, preventing the migration of white blood cells into inflamed skin.
The pharmacodynamic effects of desonide include anti-inflammatory, antipruritic (anti-itch), and vasoconstrictive actions. The vasoconstrictive properties are often used in clinical assays to determine the potency of topical steroids (the 'Stoughton-McKenzie' skin blanching test). Desonide's onset of action is relatively rapid, with many patients experiencing a reduction in itching within 24 to 48 hours, though full resolution of skin lesions may take 1 to 2 weeks.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Low (highly dependent on skin integrity) |
| Protein Binding | Approximately 90% (to albumin) |
| Half-life | 1.5 to 3 hours (systemic half-life) |
| Tmax | Variable (depends on vehicle and skin site) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (reduction and conjugation) |
| Excretion | Renal (primary), Fecal (secondary) |
Desonide is classified as a Group VI (low potency) or Group VII (least potent) corticosteroid, depending on the specific vehicle and concentration. Other medications in similar low-potency classes include hydrocortisone and alclometasone dipropionate. It is used when high-potency steroids (like clobetasol) are unnecessary or too risky.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Desonide
Desonide is a topical corticosteroid primarily used to treat various inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), seborrheic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis. It works by activating natural substances in the skin to reduce swelling, redness, and itching. Because it is a low-potency steroid, it is often prescribed for sensitive areas like the face or for use in pediatric patients. It is not intended for use on skin infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Always use it exactly as directed by your healthcare provider to avoid skin thinning.
The most common side effects of Desonide occur at the site of application and include temporary burning, stinging, itching, or dryness. These sensations usually happen shortly after applying the medication and often diminish as your skin becomes accustomed to the treatment. Some patients may also notice small red bumps or whiteheads (folliculitis) or a slight lightening of the skin color. While these are generally mild, you should inform your doctor if they persist or become bothersome. Using the medication for longer than prescribed increases the risk of more significant side effects like skin thinning.
There are no known direct drug interactions between alcohol and topical Desonide. Since the medication is applied to the skin and very little enters the bloodstream, moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe. However, alcohol can cause blood vessels to dilate, which may worsen skin redness or flushing in conditions like seborrheic dermatitis. If you find that alcohol triggers a flare-up of your skin condition, it may be best to limit your intake. Always discuss your lifestyle habits with your doctor when starting a new medication.
Desonide is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning its safety in human pregnancy has not been fully established. Animal studies have shown that high doses of corticosteroids can cause birth defects, but topical use in humans involves much lower systemic exposure. Most doctors recommend using Desonide during pregnancy only if the benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. If it is used, it should be applied to the smallest possible area for the shortest amount of time. Consult your obstetrician or dermatologist before using any steroid cream while pregnant.
Many patients begin to feel relief from itching and irritation within 24 to 48 hours of the first application of Desonide. However, it may take one to two weeks of consistent use for visible redness and skin lesions to significantly improve or clear. If your skin condition does not show any signs of improvement after two weeks of treatment, you should contact your healthcare provider. Do not continue using the medication for longer than the prescribed period without a medical re-evaluation, as this can increase the risk of skin damage.
If you have been using Desonide for a short period (less than two weeks), you can usually stop using it without any issues once your skin clears. However, if you have been using it for a prolonged period or on a large area, stopping suddenly can cause a 'rebound' effect where your skin condition returns worse than before. In these cases, doctors usually recommend a 'tapering' process, where you gradually reduce the frequency of application. Always follow the specific discontinuation instructions provided by your healthcare professional to ensure your skin remains stable.
If you miss a dose of Desonide, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled application, you should skip the missed dose and simply continue with your regular routine. Do not apply a double layer of the cream or ointment to make up for a missed dose, as this does not improve efficacy and may increase the risk of local skin irritation. Consistency is key to managing inflammatory skin conditions, so try to apply the medication at the same times each day.
Weight gain is a common side effect of oral corticosteroids (like prednisone), but it is very rare with topical steroids like Desonide. Significant weight gain, especially in the face and trunk, would only occur if a large amount of the medication was absorbed into the bloodstream over a long period, leading to Cushing's syndrome. This is highly unlikely when Desonide is used as directed on small areas of the skin. If you notice rapid, unexplained weight gain or a 'moon-faced' appearance while using this medication, contact your doctor immediately to check for systemic absorption.
Desonide can generally be used alongside most oral medications, but you should be cautious when using other topical products on the same area of skin. Using other topical steroids or skin irritants (like harsh soaps or acne treatments) simultaneously can increase the risk of skin damage or irritation. If you are taking systemic steroids or medications that suppress the immune system, the risk of side effects may be higher. Always provide your doctor with a full list of all medications, including over-the-counter creams and herbal supplements, before starting Desonide.
Yes, Desonide 0.05% is widely available as a generic medication in several forms, including cream, ointment, and lotion. Generic versions are typically more cost-effective than brand-name products like DesOwen or Verdeso and are required by the FDA to have the same active ingredient, strength, and efficacy. Some specialized forms, like certain foams or hydrogels, may only be available as branded products. Check with your pharmacist to see if a generic version of your specific prescription is available to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.