Cutivate
® (
topical fluticasone propionate) is a prescription skin medication. It comes as a cream, ointment, or lotion. The lotion form is approved to treat
atopic dermatitis, while the other two forms are approved to treat a wide variety of skin conditions, such as eczema,
psoriasis, dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and allergic reactions. It is a topical steroid.
Brand-name Cutivate products are made by PharmaDerm.
Cutivate is part of a group of medications known as glucocorticoids, which are a type of corticosteroid (or "steroid" for short). Although glucocorticoids have numerous effects in the body, they are used mostly for their anti-inflammatory or immune-suppressing properties. Cutivate works by decreasing inflammation and suppressing an overactive immune system.
Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with Cutivate include the following:
- This medication is usually applied to the affected area(s) of the skin once or twice a day, depending on the product used and the condition being treated.
- Apply Cutivate sparingly and gently rub it in. More is not better; only a thin film is necessary.
- Do not cover the medication with a dressing or bandage, as this increases the risk for side effects.
- For Cutivate to work properly, it must be used as prescribed.