Синафлан

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Синафлан

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Синафлан

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Fluocinolone Acetonide
Form Ointment, Cream (Topical preparation)
Pharmacological class Glucocorticosteroid (GCS)
Common use Relief of inflammation and itching
Origin Synthetic, fluorinated compound

Синафлан: A Definition and Pharmacological Classification

Синафлан (Synaflan) is a potent, synthetic pharmaceutical entity classified as a topical glucocorticosteroid (GCS), intended exclusively for external application to the skin. Its chemical identity is defined by the active ingredient, Fluocinolone Acetonide, which is a fluorinated derivative of the base corticosteroid prednisolone. This specific structural feature provides enhanced anti-inflammatory activity compared to non-fluorinated analogues, and the substance is categorized as a potent corticosteroid within the D07AC04 group of dermatological preparations.

Composition and Pharmaceutical Form: The Role of Fluocinolone Acetonide

The medicine is a single-ingredient product administered via the topical route, typically supplied as an ointment or cream. The formulation contains Fluocinolone Acetonide dispersed within a neutral, hydrophobic base such as petrolatum or paraffin blends, which ensures localized drug absorption. The preparation's focus on Fluocinolone Acetonide monotherapy is its differentiating feature, ensuring targeted delivery of the GCS component directly to the affected skin layers. The base formulation facilitates the drug's penetration and maintains its therapeutic concentration.

General Therapeutic Purpose and Core Benefits

The general therapeutic purpose of this topical agent is to achieve rapid, symptomatic control over acute, non-infectious inflammatory skin conditions. This is accomplished through its strong anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects, which lead directly to a pronounced antipruritic effect (reducing itching). The core benefit is the swift stabilization of the compromised dermal area, often utilized in scenarios where there is severe skin redness or swelling due to an allergic flare-up.

Regulatory References

  1. Fluocinolone Topical: MedlinePlus
  2. FDA Label: Fluocinolone Acetonide Topical Oil

What side effects are possible with Синафлан?

Official Safety Profile of Fluocinolone Acetonide

The safety profile of topical Fluocinolone Acetonide (Синафлан) is officially characterized by potential local skin reactions and, less frequently, systemic effects resulting from absorption, as documented in regulatory sources.

Adverse Reaction Scope

Category Description
Primary System-Organ Classes Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders (local effects) and Endocrine Disorders (systemic effects).
Infrequent Systemic Effects Manifestations of systemic absorption, such as Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome, are reported infrequently.
Common Dermatological Effects Local reactions may include burning, itching (pruritus), dryness, irritation, and folliculitis.

Key Safety Considerations

Serious Adverse Reactions focus on the potential for systemic toxicity, with HPA axis suppression being the most clinically significant risk documented in official labeling. This can lead to secondary adrenal insufficiency.

Population-Specific Safety: Regulatory documents note that pediatric patients are at greater susceptibility to systemic toxicity, including HPA suppression, growth retardation, and delayed weight gain, due to the higher surface area-to-body weight ratio.

Exposure-Related Patterns: The risk for certain effects, such as skin atrophy and striae, is associated with prolonged use. Systemic risks are elevated with application over large surface areas or under occlusive dressings.

Limitations: Use is officially contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation. Co-existing skin infections may require specific discontinuation or management.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose with the potent topical steroid Синафлан (Fluocinolone Acetonide) is defined in regulatory documents by the risk of excessive systemic absorption, typically following prolonged use, application to large surface areas, or use under occlusive dressings. This exposure can result in reversible Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, which is the primary documented physiological finding impacting the endocrine system. Clinical manifestations may include signs of Cushing's syndrome (hypercorticism), as well as hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar) and glucosuria (sugar in the urine).

Immediate medical attention must be sought in cases of suspected overdose, which explicitly includes the accidental ingestion of the preparation or the appearance of clinical evidence suggesting significant systemic absorption. The official profile notes that pediatric patients demonstrate greater documented susceptibility to systemic toxicity. This increased risk is due to their higher skin surface area to body weight ratio, which increases the potential for severe outcomes, including HPA axis suppression and reported intracranial hypertension.

Management of documented overdose involves symptomatic and supportive treatment, requiring the gradual withdrawal or reduction of the drug. Periodic evaluation for HPA axis suppression is required for at-risk patients, often utilizing tests like the ACTH stimulation test. No specific antidote is known for this systemic toxicity.

Therapeutic Uses of Синафлан

The primary role of this topical agent is to provide supportive relief for symptoms related to inflammatory and irritative states. It is commonly used to address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive in these conditions.

The medication is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes, including inflammatory skin conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis), psoriasis, and lichen planus, as well as providing symptomatic support for manifestations such as sunburn and insect bites.

Relief from Acute Inflammatory Skin Reactions

This medication is commonly used in conditions where acute symptoms of skin inflammation dominate, such as intense redness (erythema) and localized tissue swelling. It provides supportive relief, helping to moderate these pronounced physical manifestations during sudden symptomatic episodes.

Control of Severe Itching and Symptom Burden

Синафлан is often applied when symptoms include persistent, severe itching (pruritus) related to inflammatory and allergic skin disorders. The primary benefit is offering symptomatic relief that helps ease the overall burden of distress, supporting the patient during episodes of heightened discomfort and contributing to improved day-to-day comfort.

Quick Fact: Relief for Inflammatory Symptoms
Therapeutic focus Symptomatic relief of inflammation and itching
Symptom focus Redness, localized swelling, severe pruritus
Used in contexts Acute flares of chronic dermatoses, allergic manifestations

Regulatory References

  1. FDA DailyMed Prescribing Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Population Eligibility for Синафлан

Category Eligibility Status (Regulatory)
Contraindicated Populations Known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient (Fluocinolone Acetonide) or any component of the formulation. Patients with active viral, bacterial, or fungal skin infections at the application site. Individuals with specific conditions such as rosacea, acne, or perioral dermatitis.
Age-Related Eligibility Generally approved for use in adults. Safety and effectiveness are not established for infants under 3 months of age. Use in all children is restricted and must be limited in duration due to increased risk of systemic absorption.
Physiological State Use in pregnancy is advised only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus (historically classified as Category C). Caution is advised for nursing women, as excretion into breast milk is not known.
Key Use Restrictions The product must not be applied to the face, groin, or underarms. Should be avoided in the diaper area, as tight-fitting garments act as an occlusive dressing. Treatment duration is typically limited (e.g., often not exceeding two consecutive weeks).

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Official government labels define eligibility primarily through absolute contraindications concerning existing skin infections and drug hypersensitivity. The profile establishes clear restrictions on pediatric use and requires conditional use in pregnant and nursing individuals, underscoring the need to avoid application on sensitive areas or for prolonged periods.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official interaction profile for topical Fluocinolone Acetonide is contingent upon the risk of systemic absorption of the glucocorticosteroid active ingredient, a potential documented in regulatory labeling. This profile defines conditional interactions primarily relevant when the absorbed dose is clinically significant.

Metabolic and Exposure-Modifying Interactions

The GCS class is primarily cleared through the CYP3A4 metabolic pathway. Consequently, co-administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may reduce the clearance of the absorbed active ingredient, potentially increasing its systemic concentration. Conversely, co-use with CYP3A4 inducers may decrease systemic exposure.

Pharmacodynamic Interaction Risks

Due to the systemic effects associated with glucocorticosteroids, co-administration with certain medicinal products risks pharmacodynamic reinforcement:

  • Antidiabetic Agents: Potential for reduced efficacy of antidiabetic agents, leading to high blood sugar, due to the GCS effect on glucose metabolism.
  • Other Corticosteroids: The use of other topical or systemic corticosteroid-containing products risks additive systemic exposure and cumulative suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.

Population-Specific Considerations

Regulatory documentation notes that Pediatric Patients exhibit a heightened susceptibility to systemic absorption and the associated risk of interactions. No formal timing-based separation requirements or specific interactions with food, alcohol, or herbal products are documented for this topical formulation.

Mechanism of Action

How Синафлан Works: Mechanism of Action

Core Action: Genomic Signaling and Receptor Agonism

The primary mechanism of Fluocinolone Acetonide involves acting as an agonist for the intracellular Glucocorticoid Receptor ( GRalpha). This binding initiates a molecular cascade where the drug-receptor complex translocates into the cell nucleus to modulate DNA transcription. This fundamental genomic action either represses the genes that produce inflammatory signaling molecules (like IL-1 and TNF-alpha) or activates genes that code for anti-inflammatory proteins, such as Lipocortin-1. This action leads to the dampening of immune and inflammatory signaling.


Pathway Interference and Microvascular Stabilization

A key result of this genomic signaling is the indirect inhibition of Phospholipase A2 ( PLA2) by the newly synthesized Lipocortin-1. This blocks the Arachidonic Acid Cascade, halting the production of key inflammatory chemical mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Simultaneously, the drug engages mechanisms that influence local microvascular tone, inducing vasoconstriction and decreasing capillary permeability. These physiological changes limit the transudation of plasma fluid and cells and influence the microvascular dynamics associated with tissue fluid accumulation (edema) and increased blood flow (erythema).

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Guidelines for Синафлан (Fluocinolone Acetonide)

The administration of fluocinolone acetonide, the active ingredient in Синафлан, is limited to the topical route (external use only); it is not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use. The primary goal of the administration protocol is to achieve localized therapeutic effect with minimal exposure, defining the medicine as a short-term, symptom-control agent.

Dosage and Application

Standard dosing instructions mandate applying the preparation as a thin film to the affected skin area, using the least amount necessary to cover the lesion. The standard frequency for the 0.025% cream, ointment, or solution is typically two to four times daily, which should be gently rubbed into the skin. For specific formulations, such as the 0.01% topical oil for otic use, the dose involves drops applied twice daily. Therapy is discontinued once control of the condition is achieved.

Administration Pattern Guideline
Route of Use Topical/Dermatologic Use Only
Application Frequency Two to four times daily (standard forms)
Application Duration Short-term; generally not exceeding four weeks. For the face/children, often limited to five days

Specific Use Constraints

Specific geographical and population constraints apply to administration. Application is generally avoided on the face, groin, or axillae (underarms) unless directed by a healthcare provider. Pediatric use is limited to the minimum effective amount, and the use of occlusive dressings (including plastic pants in infants) is restricted in children due to increased systemic absorption risk. If no clear improvement is observed after two weeks of use, the diagnosis and treatment regimen require reassessment.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Синафлан


Evidence for use in Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

Синафлан (Fluocinolone acetonide) was studied for conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as Chronic Plaque Psoriasis. Research has explored the application in trials assessing short-term or episodic symptom patterns. These studies typically involved short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) lasting a few weeks, where researchers monitored outcomes related to physical discomfort and outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states.

The findings describe measured patterns observed in the studies related to parameters of skin symptoms during the observed study periods. Research highlights changes measured during the short treatment duration, which often involved tracking changes in standardized skin lesion severity scores. Studies reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, and the data show patterns of change related to visible signs of inflammation in some participants. However, the evidence is limited, and findings were mixed across the full range of studies, making it difficult to generalize these short-term observations.


Evidence for use in Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Синафлан was evaluated in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms typical of Atopic Dermatitis. Research examined temporary symptom patterns and the outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level in individuals with this condition. The study designs often involved applying the medication over defined time intervals, with studies monitoring patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and outcomes capturing phases of heightened symptom activity.

Research highlights changes measured during the study period, showing that in some trials, studies reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations. Some studies described patterns related to outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as itching and rash severity, over the short-term study period. These findings help contextualize how patients reported their experience when the medication was applied in studies conducted during periods of increased symptom activity.


Long-term studies and follow-up

The available research evidence for Синафлан provides limited information about effects beyond the short-term treatment intervals used in most clinical trials. Long-term effects are not fully established. Studies conducted so far mainly focus on periods of short-term symptom changes, typically lasting only a few weeks. This research limitation means that while studies help show what has been observed so far, there remain few data characterizing long-term outcomes when Синафлан is used.


Evidence in special populations

Research examining the use of Синафлан across different patient demographics is incomplete. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, and results apply only to the populations studied, which were primarily non-elderly adults. Specifically, comparative evidence is lacking, and evidence is limited for groups such as children and older adults (geriatric populations).


What is still uncertain about Синафлан

A key limitation across the research landscape is that evidence is limited and often characterized by modest sample sizes. Certainty remains low concerning how research findings translate across all individuals. Comparative evidence is lacking, which means it is difficult to determine how the patterns observed with Синафлан compare to other available treatments based on head-to-head clinical research. This heterogeneity and the limited information for long-term outcomes represent areas where the evidence base has limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Синафлан (FAQ)

Q: Why is Синафлан used for skin conditions like eczema?

According to regulatory documents, the medication is officially indicated for relieving the symptoms of skin conditions that are responsive to corticosteroids. These symptoms include inflammation and pruritus (intense itching). Official information specifies that this class of condition includes conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis) and psoriasis.

Q: Does Синафлан help with allergic skin rashes?

Official product information indicates the medication is used to address various skin conditions, including those linked to allergies. Its function, as described in regulatory texts, is related to reducing inflammation, swelling, and itching associated with these types of rashes.

Q: How quickly can someone expect to see an effect from using Синафлан?

Official guidance does not state an exact time for the onset of action. However, regulatory documents specify that if no visible improvement in the treated area occurs after two weeks, the diagnosis and treatment regimen should be reassessed. This two-week period is noted in regulatory guidance as a marker for when the clinical response should be evaluated.

Q: Are there different strengths of Синафлан available?

The active ingredient, Fluocinolone Acetonide, is formally supplied in various concentrations in different topical forms. For example, official formulations may include concentrations such as 0.025% and 0.01%, depending on the product and regulatory market.

Q: Is it normal to feel a slight burning sensation when first applying Синафлан?

According to official safety information, common local effects at the application site can include burning, stinging, itching, or general irritation. Official safety information reports that these local skin reactions are possible, especially when the medication is first applied to the affected area.

Q: Can Синафлан cause changes in skin color?

Regulatory documentation reports that changes in skin color, such as hypopigmentation (discoloration), are listed as a possible local adverse reaction. These potential effects are included in the official safety profile for the medication.

Q: Is Синафлан safe to use during pregnancy?

Regulatory documents indicate a conditional approach to use during pregnancy. Official documents state it should only be used if the potential benefit is considered to outweigh the potential risk to the fetus, based on animal studies that showed possible effects from corticosteroids.

Q: Can Синафлан be used while breastfeeding?

Regulatory information indicates that it is not known whether the topical use of this medication results in enough systemic absorption to pass into breast milk. Caution is advised in regulatory documents for nursing women, as is common when data on excretion into breast milk is not established.

Q: Is Синафлан suitable for use in children?

Use in children is restricted in amount and duration as defined by official prescribing information. This limitation is due to children's increased risk of absorbing the medication systemically, which can lead to serious adverse effects like HPA axis suppression (an effect on hormone regulation) or slowed growth.

Q: Can Синафлан be used for bug bites or insect stings?

The medication is officially indicated for the management of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. Its official indication is for corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, which includes addressing the inflammatory components often seen in skin irritations.

Q: What's the difference between Синафлан and other common skin ointments?

The key difference lies in its pharmacological classification. Its active ingredient, Fluocinolone Acetonide, is classified by international health agencies as a potent topical glucocorticosteroid (GCS). This classification distinguishes it from non-steroid creams, general moisturizers, or ointments containing milder ingredients.

Q: Does using Синафлан lead to dependence?

Prolonged or inappropriate continuous use of potent topical corticosteroids carries a risk of systemic effects, such as HPA axis suppression. If this occurs, abrupt discontinuation can lead to symptoms of steroid withdrawal. Regulatory documents emphasize the importance of following the prescribed duration to help mitigate these potential risks.

Q: Is Синафлан an antibiotic?

No, the drug is not an antibiotic. According to official classifications, its active ingredient is a Glucocorticosteroid (GCS), a class of medication used primarily to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses in the skin.

Q: Is Синафлан effective for deep tissue inflammation?

Official administration instructions state that the product is intended for topical use only on the skin. Therefore, its therapeutic effect is primarily limited to the skin and dermal layers and is not approved for treating inflammation in deep tissue or organs.

Q: Do studies support the use of Синафлан for diaper rash in infants?

Official regulatory documentation explicitly states that the product is contraindicated (must not be used) in the diaper area of infants. Regulatory warnings state this is because the diaper acts as an occlusive dressing, which significantly increases the potential for the drug to be absorbed systemically.

Q: What information is available regarding the long-term application of Синафлан on large body areas?

Regulatory documents specifically address the risk associated with applying the medication to large body areas for long periods. Applying the medication over large surface areas or for prolonged use significantly elevates the risk of systemic side effects, such as HPA axis suppression.

Q: How is the potency of Синафлан categorized globally by major health agencies?

Major international health agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), typically categorize the active ingredient, Fluocinolone Acetonide, as a potent (Group III) topical corticosteroid. This classification reflects its anti-inflammatory strength compared to other topical steroids.

Q: What are the signs that Синафлан might not be working for a condition?

Official guidance sets a two-week period as an important marker for evaluating clinical response. If the treated condition shows a lack of improvement after two weeks, regulatory guidance indicates that the diagnosis and treatment regimen should be reassessed.

Q: Why is it mentioned that this drug should be used for the shortest duration possible?

The duration of treatment is limited because the risk of certain serious adverse effects is strongly associated with prolonged use. These potential effects include HPA axis suppression (an effect on hormone regulation) and thinning of the skin (skin atrophy).

Q: Why is it advised to avoid bandages or dressings over the area treated with Синафлан?

Occlusive dressings, such as bandages or tight wraps, are advised against because they substantially increase the amount of the drug absorbed through the skin. This higher absorption raises the risk of systemic side effects, particularly HPA axis suppression.

Q: Can applying makeup or cosmetics over Синафлан affect its function?

Official labeling advises caution regarding the use of other topical products, including cosmetics, in the treated area. While specific formal interactions are not detailed, combining the cream with other products may potentially affect the absorption or localized effects of the medication.

Q: How does the concentration of the active ingredient relate to the potency of Синафлан?

The drug's overall potency classification (for instance, being labeled as "potent") is primarily based on the active ingredient itself. While this potency is generally consistent across standard formulations, variations in concentration or the cream/ointment base may influence its final classification relative to other topical steroids.

Q: Is it necessary to wash the skin before each application of Синафлан?

General guidance for applying topical skin products often involves cleaning the affected area before application. Specific washing instructions may vary, and patients are directed to refer to the precise preparation instructions that accompany the medication.

Q: Can Синафлан be used to treat acne?

No, the official product information explicitly states that the medication is contraindicated (must not be used) for individuals with conditions such as acne. This condition is listed as a reason to avoid applying the product.

How should Синафлан be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements for Синафлан (Fluocinolone Acetonide)

Official regulatory labeling dictates specific conditions for storing and disposing of this topical medication to ensure its quality and stability.


Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F).
Protection Avoid freezing, avoid excessive heat above 40°C, and protect from light.
Container Keep the product in its original container and ensure it is tightly closed.
Child Safety The medication must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Disposal of any unused or expired product must be executed in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations for pharmaceutical waste. The product must not be disposed of into the wastewater system or general household trash unless local regulatory guidelines specifically permit it. Patients must consult local disposal programs for proper handling.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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