<p>Fluocinolone is a type of medicine called a topical corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are medicines used for reducing inflammation. Inflammation of the skin happens as a result of allergy or irritation of the skin, and is caused by the release of various substances that are important in the immune system. These substances cause blood vessels to widen and result in the irritated area becoming red, swollen, itchy and painful, such as is seen in dermatitis or eczema.<br />
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When fluocinolone is applied to the skin it works by acting inside the cells to decrease the release of these inflammatory substances. This reduces swelling, redness and itch.<br />
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There is a range of potencies of corticosteroids available for application to the skin. This medicine contains fluocinolone 0.025% and is classed as a potent corticosteroid. It is prescribed to treat various inflammatory skin disorders, such as eczema and dermatitis, that have not responded to milder steroids.<br />
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Clioquinol has antifungal and antibacterial actions. It works by preventing the growth and multiplication of the organisms.<br />
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The combination of fluocinolone and clioquinol is used to treat inflammatory skin disorders that are either infected or likely to become infected.<br />
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This cream is more suitable for moist, weeping areas of skin, while the thicker, more greasy ointment is more suitable for dry, scaly areas of skin.</p>