 |
 |
How
often should Luxíq be applied? |
|
|
It
is recommended that Luxíq be applied BID. However, you may need to
individualize treatment for each of your patients, based on the severity
of their condition. As with other corticosteroids, therapy should be discontinued
when control is achieved. If no improvement is seen within 2 weeks, reassessment
of the diagnosis may be necessary. |
 |
|
|
How
effective is Luxíq? |
|
|
In a
clinical trial, 90–100% clearance of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis was achieved in just 28 days in the majority of patients.1,2 What's more, Luxíq significantly reduced erythema and plaque
thickness, as compared with betamethasone valerate lotion.1 |
|
|
|
What is the potency of Luxíq? |
|
|
According
to vasoconstrictor assays, which are used to assess the relative potency
of topical corticosteroids, Luxíq is a mid-potency topical corticosteroid.1 If
you require information about a super-high-potency topical corticosteroid,
please visit www.olux.com |
|
|
|
Can patients occlude the affected area after applying Luxíq? |
|
|
Unless
directed by a healthcare professional, occlusive dressings should not be used following the application
of Luxíq. The treated area should be left open to the air. Conditions
that augment systemic absorption include the application of the more potent
steroids, use over large surface areas, prolonged use, and the addition
of occlusive dressings. Therefore, patients applying a topical steroid to
a large surface area or to areas under occlusion should be evaluated periodically
for evidence of adrenal suppression. |
|
|
|
Can patients stop using Luxíq as soon as they see their condition clearing up? |
|
|
Patients
should be instructed to apply Luxíq for as long as their physician has recommended.
If they stop applying the medication, the condition may not resolve completely.
As with other corticosteroids, therapy should be discontinued when control
is achieved. If no improvement is seen within 2 weeks, reassessment of the
diagnosis may be necessary. |
|
|
|
What should patients do if they miss a dose? |
|
|
If a dose of Luxíq is missed, instruct patients to apply it as soon as they remember, and then resume their regular schedule. If they remember
at the time of their second daily application, patients should apply only
one dose, and then continue with their normal schedule. To enhance compliance,
encourage patients to inform you if they have missed several doses. |
|
|
|
Can I use Luxíq on pediatric patients? |
|
|
The
safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Because of a higher ratio of skin surface area to body mass, pediatric patients
are at a greater risk than adults of HPA axis suppression and Cushing’s
syndrome when they are treated with topical corticosteroids. They are therefore
also at greater risk of adrenal insufficiency during and/or after withdrawal
of treatment. Adverse effects including striae have been reported with inappropriate
use of topical corticosteroids in infants and children. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
(HPA) axis suppression, Cushing’s syndrome, linear growth retardation,
delayed weight gain, and intracranial hypertension have been reported in
children receiving topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression
in children include low plasma cortisol levels and an absence of response
to ACTH stimulation. Manifestations of intracranial hypertension include
bulging fontanelles, headaches, and bilateral papilledema. Administration
of topical corticosteroids to children should be limited to the least amount
compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Chronic corticosteroid
therapy may interfere with the growth and development of children. |
|
|
|
What are the possible side effects associated with Luxíq? |
|
|
As
with any prescription medication, some people may experience side effects.
However, most people do not have any problems with Luxíq. The most frequent side effects associated with the use of Luxíq are mild and transient burning, stinging, or itching at the application site.
|
|
|
|
What size cans of Luxíq are available? |
|
|
Luxíq is available in 50 gram and 100 gram can sizes.
|
|
|
|
How much area does a gram of Luxíq cover? |
|
|
Gram for gram, the innovative foam modality offers coverage
that is comparable to traditional vehicles.3 A small fingertip dollop can spread to cover an area or lesion approximately
3 square inches (about the size of the back of your hand).3
|
|
|
|
When should I prescribe Luxíq? |
|
|
Luxíq is a medium potency topical corticosteroid indicated for relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of
corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses of the scalp, such as psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. For more
information on Luxíq, please refer to the Luxíq Full Prescribing Information.
|
|
|
|
References: 1. Luxíq NDA. 2. Franz TJ, Parsell DA, Halualani RM, et al. Betamethasone valerate
foam 0.12%: a novel vehicle with enhanced delivery and efficacy. Int
J Dermatol. 1999;38:628-632. 3. Feldman SR, Sangha N, Setaluri V. Topical corticosteroid in foam vehicle
offers comparable coverage compared with traditional vehicles. J Am Acad
Dermatol. 2000;42(6):1017-1020.
|
|
