Momin (mometasone furoate) is a corticosteroid applied topically to the skin to alleviate irritation, such as pain, itching and inflammation. Though not the most potent corticosteroid available, it is more potent than most commonly-available corticosteroids and use is typically reserved for scenarios in which less-potent medications do not produce good results.

Momin can be used in all ages, but parents should be sure to get doctor approval before using this product in young children. It can produce serious side effects.

Common Uses

The majority of patients are prescribed Momin to help manage:

• Eczema
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis
• Allergic reactions
• Psoriasis
• Phimosis

Momin can be used in wide range of other skin ailments as well, though use is less common than in the above.

This product should not be used to treat:

• Viral skin infections, such as chicken pox or cold sores
• Fungal skin infections, such as thrush or athlete's foot
• Bacterial skin infections, such as carbuncles or impetigo
• Diaper rash
• Open wounds or ulcers

The medication can make viral, fungal, or bacterial rashes worse; the medication is a corticosteroid, which works by inhibiting immune system response. It should not be used on skin that will be covered with air-tight dressings---such as a diaper---and using it on open wounds allows too much of it to be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Momin is sometimes used on the skin of the face or mucous membranes of the groin. This should be done only if directed to do so by a doctor; use on the face in particular can cause a range of new issues, many of which are both uncomfortable and unsightly.

Administering Momin

This product comes in a topical cream, typically applied directly to the problem area once per day. Treatment should not exceed 5 days if used on the face or 3 weeks if applied elsewhere on the skin. In practice many patients do administer Momin for a bit longer, but this is highly inadvisable in young children who may not be able to recognize or articulate side effects.

To use the cream:

• Wash and dry the affected area.
• Apply a thin layer of cream directly to the affected area once daily.
• Gently rub in and allow to dry.
• Wash hands and any unaffected skin which came into contact with the cream.

Improvements might be noticeable in days, or it might take a week or two. If no improvements are noticed after two weeks of daily use, alternative therapies should be considered.

If the condition worsens during treatment, use of Momin should stop and a doctor be consulted.

Note that Momin is not a cure for anything; it is only treating symptoms. Symptoms may return in the future, in which case Momin can be used again. Additional medications, including topical lotions, may also be prescribed to address the underlying condition; if more than one topical cream is being administered allow one cream to fully dry before applying the other unless directed otherwise by a doctor.

Adverse Effects

Used as directed, side effects are rare and the vast majority involve the skin around the affected area, including:

• Tingling, stinging, burning or itching
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Thinning of the skin
• Easy bruising

The above are not cause for concern unless severe, and will reverse when treatment ends.

Stop using the product until speaking with doctor if experiencing:

• Spread of rash or worsening symptoms
• Signs of infection; heat, swelling, or discharge
• Spots or bumps on skin
• Sores or ulcers

Effects on unborn or nursing babies is somewhat disputed; parents should discuss benefits versus risks with a doctor before starting treatment.