Indications 

Tri-Luma Cream is a prescription medicine indicated for the temporary management of moderate to severe facial melasma (dark skin patches), in conjunction with sun-protective measures, such as sunscreen application. 

Tri-Luma Cream comprises three distinct medications: Hydroquinone, a reversible skin-bleaching agent; tretinoin, a retinoid that enhances skin exfoliation; and fluocinolone, a moderately potent corticosteroid that mitigates swelling, itching, and redness. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Tri-Luma Cream and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any concerns, seek guidance from your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Tri-Luma Cream is for topical use only and should not be ingested, applied to the eyes, or used intravaginally. 

Typically, this medication is applied once daily to the affected skin area 30 minutes before bedtime, as prescribed by the doctor. 

To properly use Tri-Luma Cream, follow these steps: 

1. Begin by gently cleansing the face and neck using a mild cleanser. 
2. After rinsing, gently pat the skin dry. 
3. Apply the cream to the areas affected by melasma, ensuring to cover approximately half an inch of the surrounding normal skin around each lesion. 
4. Massage the cream lightly and evenly into the skin. 
5. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the medication. 

Do not let Tri-Luma Cream come into contact with your eyes, inner nose, or mouth. If it does, rinse with water. Seek immediate medical help if severe irritation occurs. 

For optimal results, adhere to a consistent schedule when using Tri-Luma Cream. Apply it nightly at around the same time. 

Discontinue Tri-Luma Cream use once the desired control is achieved. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Tri-Luma Cream. Promptly inform your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or deteriorate. 

Common Side Effects 

• Acne 
• Mild skin issues such as redness, burning, itching, dryness, or peeling. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Darkening or discoloration of the treated skin 
• Irritation in the eyes, nose, or mouth 
• Severe skin reactions such as redness, itching, peeling, blistering, or crusting 
• Intense burning or swelling of the skin 
• Potential signs of fluocinolone absorption through the skin, including: 
  • Increased fatigue or muscle weakness 
  • Loss of appetite, diarrhea 
  • Weight changes, particularly in the face, upper back, and torso 
  • Delayed wound healing, skin thinning, increased body hair 
  • Alterations in sexual function 
  • Experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or irritability

Stop using Tri-Luma Cream and contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Tri-Luma Cream may occur. Immediate medical attention is required upon noticing any signs of an allergic response, including: 

• Hives 
• Intense itching 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Swelling face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Tri-Luma Cream are included in this list. Inform your doctor if any unlisted effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Tri-Luma Cream, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to: 

• Fluocinolone 
• Hydroquinone  
• Tretinoin 
• Other corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone) 
• Other retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin) 

Consult your pharmacist for additional information about Tri-Luma Cream, as it may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Tri-Luma Cream is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Asthma 
• Open sores or skin damage, particularly on the face or hands 
• Other skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis 

Inform your healthcare providers about all the products you are using, including medications (prescription and nonprescription), vitamins, and herbal supplements that you have recently started or stopped to prevent interactions with Tri-Luma Cream. 

Potential interactions with Tri-Luma Cream may occur with: 

• Other medicated skin products, including soaps, cleansers, and skin medications 
• Hormone-based birth control products, such as birth control pills and hormone implants. 

Hormonal contraception methods, such as birth control pills, injections, implants, skin patches, and vaginal rings, may exacerbate melasma. Consult your physician regarding non-hormonal birth control options, like condoms or diaphragms with spermicide, as alternatives. 

Steer clear of sunlight and tanning devices, as the use of Tri-Luma Cream increases susceptibility to sunburn. Wear protective clothes and apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) during outdoor activities. 

Your skin might become more sensitive to harsh weather conditions like cold and wind. Safeguard your skin with appropriate clothing and apply moisturizing cream or lotion, as necessary. 

Excessive skin bleaching can lead to an unfavorable aesthetic outcome for individuals with darker skin. Seek advice from your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information. 

Tri-Luma Cream should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary, as it may pose a risk to the unborn baby. Consult with your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits. 

The potential transfer of fluocinolone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin topical into breast milk and its impact on a nursing infant remains unknown. Inform your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding before using Tri-Luma Cream.