Is fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) a steroid?

Yes, fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is a [steroid](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/corticosteroids). In fact, fluocinolone 0.01% is considered to have [low-to-medium potency](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/corticosteroids/topical-steroid-potency-chart#potency-chart), meaning it's of low-to-medium strength.

What's the difference between DermOtic Oil and Derma-Smoothe oil?

Both DermOtic Oil and [Derma-Smooth/FS](https://www.goodrx.com/compare/dermotic-vs-fluocinolone) are brand names of steroid oils that contain the same active ingredient at the same strength, fluocinolone 0.01%. Both medications are approved to treat eczema. But fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is only for eczema in the ear for people ages 2 years and older whereas Derma-Smoothe/FS is used for eczema in many parts of the body in people ages 3 months and older. Talk to your dermatologist if you have more questions on the [differences](https://www.goodrx.com/compare/dermotic-vs-fluocinolone) between both products.

Is fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) over the counter?

No, fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is only available by a prescription from a healthcare professional.

fluocinolone

Generic DermOtic Oil

Used for Ear Infection, Eczema

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is a corticosteroid ear drop used to treat itchy ears and redness due to ear eczema in adults and children. The dosage is typically 5 drops placed directly in the ear twice a day for 7 to 14 days. The medication is available as a lower-cost generic as well as under brand name DermOtic Oil. Side effects aren't common, but can include ear irritation or burning.

Reviewed by:

Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

Last reviewed on August 25, 2024

What is Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)?

What is Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) used for?

Ear eczema in people ages 2 years and older

How Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) works

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is a corticosteroid. It lowers inflammation (swelling, redness, and itchiness) caused by eczema in the ear.

Are you looking for information on fluocinolone (Synalar) topical products, Capex (fluocinolone) shampoo, or fluocinolone (Derma Smooth FS) body/scalp oil instead?

Drug facts

Common BrandsDermOtic Oil

Drug ClassCorticosteroid

Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication

Generic StatusLower-cost generic available

AvailabilityPrescription only

Side effects of Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

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
Dryness

Less Common Side Effects

Acne
Skin lightening
Skin thinning
Stretch marks
Heat rash

Source: DailyMed

The following Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Anorexia

black or tarry stools

bone fractures

breathing difficulties

burning or stinging of the ear

chest pain

continual stomach pain or burning

decreased or blurred vision

excess hair growth in females

fainting

flushing

frequent urination

headache

high blood pressure

impaired wound healing

impotence in males

increased sweating

increased thirst

irregular heartbeat

low blood pressure

menstrual changes

muscle cramps

muscle wasting

nausea or vomiting

persistent fungal infections of the ear

rapid weight gain

seizures

stomach bloating

suppressed growth in children

suppressed reaction to skin tests

swelling of feet or lower legs

thin fragile skin

tingling in arms and lower legs or feet

vertigo

weight loss

There have not been any other common or important side effects reported with this medicine.

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price

$146.12(Save 80.20%)

GoodRx discount

$28.93

See prices

Pros and cons of Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

Pros

One of the few medications specifically FDA approved to treat ear eczema
Generally well tolerated with few side effects
Safe to use in children age 2 years and older

Cons

Can be difficult for some people to use correctly
Not for long-term use
Made with peanut oil, which can be a problem for people with peanut allergies

Pharmacist tips for Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

Place fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) drops in the ears only. Don't use the drops anywhere else on your body.
If fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) accidentally gets in your eyes, rinse them well with water.
You might feel a little stinging or burning in the ear after you use fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil), especially when you first start the medication. But it should go away as the ear starts to heal.
Speak to a healthcare professional if your symptoms don't improve after you've used fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) for 2 weeks. You might have a medical problem that requires different treatment.
Don't let the fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) dropper tip touch your ear or any other surface, and don't touch the tip with your hands. This helps prevent the ear drops from getting contaminated with germs.
Store fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) at room temperature. Once opened, the bottle is only good for 2 months. After that, be sure to throw it away even if there is medication left.

How to use fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil):

Before using the medication, wash your hands with soap and water. Then gently clean your eye with a damp cloth and wait for it to dry.
Lie down or tilt your head so the affected ear is facing up. Pull your ear back and upwards, and place the 5 drops into the ear. Then, gently push the triangular piece of skin over the ear so that the medication can get into the ear better.
Keep the affected ear tilted up for about a minute. Use a clean tissue or cotton ball to wipe away any extra medication that drips out of the ear.

Common questions about DermOtic

Yes, DermOtic is a steroid. In fact, fluocinolone 0.01% is considered to have low-to-medium potency, meaning it's of low-to-medium strength.

Yes, DermOtic can expire. There should be an expiration date that's written on the product box or bottle. Don't use the medication past the written expiration date because it might not work well to help treat your symptoms. Also, you should throw away your bottle of DermOtic once it's been open for 2 months.

No, you don't need to wash out DermOtic from your ear. After placing the drops, you can gently pat away any excess medication dripping out of the ear using a clean cotton ball. But, avoid reaching into the ear to wipe off the medication.

Both DermOtic Oil and Derma-Smooth/FS are brand names of steroid oils that contain the same active ingredient at the same strength, fluocinolone 0.01%. Both medications are approved to treat eczema. But DermOtic is only for eczema in the ear for people ages 2 years and older whereas Derma-Smoothe/FS is used for eczema in many parts of the body in people ages 3 months and older. Talk to your dermatologist if you have more questions on the differences between both products.

No, DermOtic is only available by a prescription from a healthcare professional.

There aren't enough studies to confirm if DermOtic is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. But, since it's applied as a drop in the ear, the chances of it being absorbed into your body and reaching your baby are low. Still, it's important to discuss the risks and benefits with your prescriber.

How to save using GoodRx

1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.

2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.

3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.

Get free coupon Learn more

Risks and warnings for Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) 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.

Reduced stress hormones

Risk factors: Using fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) for a long period of time | Applying fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) over a large area | Covering applied area with a bandage | Children

Applying fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) to large areas or using it for long periods of time can cause more of the medication to be absorbed into the body. Too much of this medication can cause your body to make less of certain stress hormones, which are important for many bodily functions. This problem usually goes away when the medication is stopped. Use fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) only as directed. Don't apply more of the medication or use it for longer than instructed.

Allergic reactions

Risk factors: Peanut allergy

Allergic reactions to fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) are possible. These reactions can include life-threatening facial swelling, shock, and anaphylaxis (closing of the throat). Let your care team know if you're allergic to peanuts because fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is made from peanut oil. Get medical attention right away if you notice hives, rash, red skin, swelling of the lips or tongue, or difficulty breathing after you use fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil).

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) dosage

The average cost for 1 ear dropper of 20ml of 0.01% of Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) is $28.93 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 80.20% off the average retail price of $146.12.

Ear dropper

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
20ml of 0.01%	1 ear dropper	$28.93	$28.93

Typical dosage for Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

The typical dose is 5 drops into the affected ear(s) twice per day for 7 to 14 days.

Interactions between Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) and other drugs

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

How much does Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) cost?

To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.

DermOtic (brand)

GoodRx lowest price

$28.93

(save 86.15%)

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) (generic)

GoodRx lowest price

$28.93

(save 80.20%)

View prices and coupons

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) contraindications

Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) will not be safe for you to take.

Allergy to peanuts

What are alternatives to Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil). Compare a few possible alternatives below.

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

Used for:

Ear eczema in people ages 2 years and older

$28.93Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Topical hydrocortisone

Used for:

Short-term relief of skin irritations (e.g., itching) due to:

Skin inflammation
Skin rashes
Eczema
Psoriasis
Insect bites
Poison ivy or oak
Skin allergies
Dry scalp
Genital or rectal irritation

$19.65Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Desonide

Used for:

Skin rashes and other skin irritations - cream, lotion, and ointment
Eczema in adults and children 3 months and older - gel only

$14.64Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

News about Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil)

Hyperpigmentation in Darker Skin Tones: Pictures, Causes, and Treatment

Hyperpigmentation is the clinical term for darker skin discoloration. See what hyperpigmentation looks like on Black and brown skin, plus ways to treat it.

Fluocinolone (DermOtic Oil) images

This medicine is Colorless Ear Dropper.

References

Best studies we found

Royal Pharmaceuticals. (2024). DermOtic- fluocinolone acetonide oil [package insert]. DailyMed.

SafeMedication. (n.d.). How to use ear drops.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

fluocinolone