Author: Unknown

•	Guidance on how much ointment to use 
If your doctor has told you in detail how to use the ointment then keep to that advice otherwise:–
Twice a day, after washing your hands, gently rub the correct amount of ointment into the skin until it has all disappeared.
For an adult:

You should find that
two fingertips of ointment will treat both hands or one foot
three fingertips of ointment will treat one arm
six fingertips of ointment will treat one leg
fourteen fingertips of ointment will treat the front and back of one trunk

Fingertip Units
Do not worry if you find you need a little more or a little less than this - it is only a rough guide.
Wash your hands before using the ointment. Gently rub the correct amount into the skin until it has all disappeared. Unless used for treating the hands wash them again after using the ointment. Anyone who helps to rub in the ointment should also do the same or wear disposable plastic gloves.
For a child
It should not be used in children under one year of age.
The smaller the child the less you use.
A child of 4 years needs about a third of the adult amount.
A course of treatment for a child should not normally last more than five days unless your doctor has told you to use it for longer.
•	Has the ointment any side effects?
Most people find using this ointment causes no problems when used in the right amount for the correct length of time (See above).
Occasionally some people experience a little burning or irritation when the ointment is applied.
IF you find your condition gets worse during treatment you may be allergic to the ointment or have a skin infection.
STOP USING THE OINTMENT AND TELL YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
Using more than the correct amount may:
-	thin the skin so it damages easily
-	allow the active ingredient to pass through the skin and affect other pans of the body especially in infants and children, and during pregnancy.
However, this is very unlikely unless treating very large areas and using large quantities of Cutivate.
If your doctor has prescribed the ointment for psoriasis you should let your doctor review your progress at regular intervals, as such treatment needs careful supervision.
Repeated courses of topical steroids over a long time may sometimes cause changes in hair growth and skin colour.
If you feel unwell or have any unusual discomfort you do not understand, tell your doctor as soon as possible.
•	Where to keep your medicine
As with all medicines keep this ointment safely away from children.
Store it at room temperature below 30°C.
•	What to do with any unused ointment
If your doctor stops your treatment, return any unused ointment to a pharmacist. Only keep it if your doctor tells you to.
Do not use the ointment after the expiry date on the tube or carton.
•	Remember
This ointment was prescribed for YOU so never give it to someone else to try - even if they seem to have the same problem. There may be reasons why it could harm that person.
•	Further information
This leaflet does not contain all the information about your medicine. If you have any questions or are not sure about anything ask your doctor or pharmacist who has the information you need and will advise you. Pharmaceutical companies are not allowed to answer questions from patients about their diseases.
Family Doctor Publications in association with the British Medical Association publishes a series known as Family Doctor booklets which includes "Understanding Skin Problems". This may be purchased from your chemist or from Family Doctor Publications Ltd. The Coach House. 1 Playfair Street, London, W6 9SA.
Other sources of information are:
National Eczema Society. 163 Eversholt Street, London, NW1 1 BU
You may also be able to find out more from books in public libraries.
YOU MAY WANT TO READ THIS LEAFLET AGAIN. PLEASE DO NOT THROW IT AWAY UNTIL YOU HAVE FINISHED YOUR MEDICINE.
This leaflet has been produced in accordance with guidance issued by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry. The information provided applies only to CUTIVATE OINTMENT.
CUTIVATE and CUTIVATE logo are trade marks of the Glaxo Wellcome Group of Companies.
Leaflet written September 1995 ©

Glaxo Laboratories Limited, Stockley Park West, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB11 1BT