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Ala-Quin

hydrocortisone / clioquinol
Used for Skin Infection, Eczema, Skin Allergy, Acne, Athlete's Foot, Ringworm, Jock Itch
Used for Skin Infection, Eczema, Skin Allergy, Acne, Athlete's Foot, Ringworm, Jock Itch

Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) is a combination medication containing hydrocortisone and iodochlorhydroxyquin, or clioquinol for short. It that can treat various skin infections and inflammatory conditions of the skin.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Aileen Chu, PharmD, BCPS
reviewer
Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Last reviewed on August 12, 2021
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)?

What is Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) used for?

  • Skin infections

  • Inflammatory conditions of the skin

How Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) works

Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) is a combination of two medications.

  • Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces chemicals in the body that cause swelling, inflammation, and itching.

  • Iodochlorhydroxyquin (also known as clioquinol) is an anti-infective medication. It's uncertain how iodochlorhydroxyquin works, but it's both an antifungal and antibacterial, which helps to treat various types of infections.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAla-Quin
Drug ClassCorticosteroid / Anti-infective
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$518.53(save 17.24%)
GoodRx discount
$429.16
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What are the side effects of Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Irritation
  • Dry skin

Other Side Effects

  • Inflammed hair follicles
  • Blisters
  • Skin peeling
  • Skin redness
  • Swelling
  • Excess hair growth
  • Acne or pustules
  • Lighter skin color
  • Skin inflammation around the mouth
  • Eczema (allergic irritation)
  • Over-moisturized skin appearance
  • Skin thinning
  • Stretch marks
  • Heat rash
  • Infection

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reactions
  • Abnormal stress hormone levels
  • New infections: Skin reddening, swelling, pus, fever

Source: DailyMed

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)

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Pros

Combination of two medications that work in different ways

Treats many different types of skin problems

Can be used in children older than 2 years old

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Cons

Applied up to 4 times a day; may be burdensome

Not for long-term use

Brand-name only, so it can be very expensive

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)

pharmacist

  • Don't use Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) on areas that are affected by tuberculosis or herpes (viral) infections, like cold sores, chickenpox, or shingles. It won't work for these conditions and can actually make them worse.

    • Before applying Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol), make sure the affected areas of skin are clean and dry. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication to prevent spread of infection.

      • Don't use Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) longer than what your provider has told you to do so. Long-term use of this medication can cause more side effects, including certain types of infections. If you don't see improvement within 2 weeks, talk to your provider.

        • Don't place bandages or dressings over the areas where Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) is applied unless your provider has instructed you to do so. If your child is getting Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) in the diaper area, do not put on tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants afterwards. Covering medicated areas can affect how your body absorbs it and can cause more side effects.

          • Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) can stain your clothes, fabrics, skin, and hair. Be careful to only apply this medication to the affected area(s), using only the minimal amount of medication necessary.

            • If you notice irritation from Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol), stop using it and let your provider know right away. You may need to switch to a different medication.

              • Do not use Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) in or near the eye. If the medication gets in your eyes, wash it out with water immediately.

                • If you are using other corticosteroid-containing products, check with your provider first before using Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol). Using multiple corticosteroids raises your risk of side effects.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)

                  What is Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) used to treat?
                  Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) treats bacterial and fungal/yeast infections of the skin. It is also used to treat many types of inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, dermatitis, and folliculitis (inflammed hair follicles).
                  Can Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) cause burning?
                  A burning sensation on the skin is a possible side effect of this medication. This is likely due to the hydrocortisone component of Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol). If your skin becomes too irritated, let your provider know. You may need to switch to a different medication.
                  How long should you use Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)?
                  Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) is mainly for short-term use. Using Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) for too long can lead to more side effects, like skin changes or abnormal stress hormones. If you don't see improvement after using it for 1 to 2 weeks, talk to your provider, since you may need to try a different medication.
                  Do you need a prescription for Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)?
                  Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) requires a prescription from your provider. Hydrocortisone and some antibiotic and antifungal creams are available over-the-counter, but only in mild forms that may not work as well.
                  What's the difference between clioquinol and iodochlorhydroxyquin?
                  Clioquinol and iodochlorhydroxyquin are different names for the exact same medication. Iodochlorhydroxyquin is an anti-infective and one of the main ingredients of Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol).
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)?

                  Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Staining

                  Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) can stain your clothes and your skin. Apply it carefully, using only the minimal amount of medication necessary to cover the affected area(s). Rarely, it can make your hair or nails turn a yellow color. Talk to your provider if this concerns you.

                  risk-warning

                  Skin irritation

                  For some people, Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) can irritate the skin, especially in more sensitive areas. If your condition gets worse, stop using this medication and talk to your provider. If you don't see improvement in 1 to 2 weeks, you may want to talk with your provider to discuss alternative treatments.

                  risk-warning

                  Change in hormones

                  • Risk factors: Applying Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) to large areas of the body | Using Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) for a long time | Covering the medicated area | Children

                    Applying Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) to large areas, using it for long periods of time, or covering the medicated area can cause more medication to be absorbed into the body. Children are also more likely to absorb Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol). Too much of this medication can cause your body to make less of certain stress hormones that are important for many bodily functions. This problem usually goes away after you stop using Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol), but you may need additional medical treatment if it is severe. Use Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) only as directed. Do not apply more of the medication or for longer than what your healthcare provider has prescribed. Do not cover the medicated area with bandages or dressings unless your provider tells you to do so. Your child might need more frequent check-ups with their provider while using this medication, and they should not wear tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants if getting Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) in the diaper area.

                    risk-warning

                    Skin infection

                    • Risk factors: Using Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) for a long time

                      Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) doesn't work against all disease-causing organisms. Using this medication for a long time can make it easier for bacteria and other organisms to grow and cause infections. Tell your provider immediately if you notice reddening, swelling, pus, or a fever after starting on Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol).

                      dosage

                      Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) dosage forms

                      The average cost for 1 tube of 28.4g of 0.5%/3% of Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) is $429.16 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 17.24% off the average retail price of $518.53.
                      tube of cream
                      Tube of cream
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      28.4g of 0.5%/3%1 tube$429.16$429.16
                      80g of 0.5%/3%1 tube$764.46$764.46

                      Typical dosing for Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)

                      Apply a thin layer to affected area(s) 2 to 4 times daily or as instructed by your provider.

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                      How much does Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol) cost?

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                      Ala-Quin (brand)
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                      $429.16

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                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Ala-Quin (hydrocortisone / clioquinol)
                      Used for:

                      • Skin infections

                      • Inflammatory conditions of the skin

                      $429.16 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Vytone (hydrocortisone / iodoquinol)
                      Used for:

                      • Skin infections

                      • Inflammatory conditions of the skin

                      $46.01 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Lotrisone (clotrimazole / betamethasone)
                      Used for:
                      $13.53 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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