Fludroxycortide Tape

Fludroxycortide Tape

What is Fludroxycortide Tape used for?

Fludroxycortide Tape is used to treat stubborn inflammatory skin conditions, particularly where conventional steroid creams or ointments are less effective. It’s designed for dry, thickened and scaly skin patches that need prolonged contact with a strong corticosteroid.

Each square centimetre of tape contains 4 micrograms of fludroxycortide, a potent corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation, redness, itching and swelling in the affected area.

Unlike creams or ointments, Fludroxycortide Tape is a thin, flexible, adhesive surgical tape that delivers continuous steroid treatment directly to the skin. It’s particularly useful for areas that move frequently, such as elbows, knees, hands or feet, while its waterproof surface keeps it in place during washing and bathing.

Who can use Fludroxycortide Tape?

Fludroxycortide Tape is suitable for adults and children when prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Don’t use Fludroxycortide Tape if you have:

• Chickenpox or a skin reaction to the smallpox vaccination
• Tuberculosis of the skin
• Rosacea or acne on the face
• Dermatitis around the mouth
• Itching of the genitals or anus
• Bacterial skin infections (such as impetigo), viral skin infections (such as cold sores) or fungal skin infections (such as athlete’s foot)

Don’t use Fludroxycortide Tape if you:

• Are allergic to fludroxycortide or any other ingredients
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Speak to your doctor before use if you:

• Have or suspect you have a skin infection
• Notice your condition worsening or spreading during treatment
• Are applying it to the face (maximum 5 days of use)

How To Use Fludroxycortide Tape

1. Make sure the affected skin is clean and dry before application.
2. Cut the tape with clean scissors to fit the affected area, allowing a small border of healthy skin.
3. Remove the paper backing and apply the adhesive side to the skin.
4. Smooth gently from the centre outwards for good adhesion.
5. Apply while the skin is flexed if using on joints.

The tape is usually worn for around 12 hours per day or as directed by your doctor. Don’t cover with additional dressings or tight clothing.

Side Effects of Fludroxycortide Tape

Like all medicines, Fludroxycortide Tape can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.

Common Side Effects

• Burning, itching or irritation at the application site
• Dry or thinning skin

Less Common Or Rare Side Effects

• Excessive hair growth or acne
• Skin discolouration or stretch marks
• Hormonal effects with prolonged use
• Steroid withdrawal reactions if stopped suddenly

If you get any side effects not listed here, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Fludroxycortide Tape Ingredients

Active ingredient: Fludroxycortide 4 micrograms per cm²

Other ingredients: Acrylate copolymer adhesive, low-density polyethylene backing, silicone-coated paper release liner

Warnings and Precautions

• Don’t use Fludroxycortide Tape for long periods without speaking to your doctor.
• Don’t use on children’s skin for more than 5 days and don’t cover it tightly, as children may absorb more steroid than adults with prolonged use.
• Some steroids can affect hormone levels. If your doctor prescribes longer-term treatment, they may arrange hormone tests. If the tape is affecting your hormones, your doctor may advise you to stop using it.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you’re currently using.
• Store below 25°C in a dry place, in a tightly closed container, out of the sight and reach of children.
• Don’t use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.