Gentrisone Cream is a prescription-only topical medication used to relieve inflammation, itching and mixed skin infections (e.g., eczema/dermatitis with fungal or bacterial involvement).
This is an educational overview for patients in Singapore and does not promote any product.
Important: Gentrisone is a Prescription-Only Medicine (POM) in Singapore. Use only under the guidance of a licensed doctor. Public advertising or sale without prescription is not permitted.
What Is Gentrisone Cream?
Gentrisone is a combination topical cream that typically includes three therapeutic actions:
- Anti-inflammatory (corticosteroid): Helps reduce redness, swelling, and itch.
- Antifungal: Targets fungal organisms in conditions like tinea (ringworm) or intertrigo.
- Antibacterial: Helps prevent or control secondary bacterial infection.
This triple-action approach is useful when inflammation and infection coexist.
Common Conditions Where Doctors May Prescribe It
- Eczema / Dermatitis: inflamed, itchy patches; prone to secondary infection.
- Fungal skin infections: tinea/ringworm with accompanying redness and itch.
- Infected rashes or bites: painful, red or oozing areas requiring antibacterial cover.
- Intertrigo (skin-fold rash): moist, irritated folds that favour fungal/bacterial growth.
How Gentrisone Cream Works
- Anti-inflammatory: The corticosteroid suppresses local inflammatory mediators to calm itch and redness.
- Antifungal: Limits fungal proliferation on compromised skin barriers.
- Antibacterial: Addresses bacterial overgrowth that can worsen eczematous flares.
How to Use (General Guidance)
- Cleanse hands and the affected skin gently; pat dry.
- Apply a thin layer once or twice daily as prescribed.
- Avoid eyes, mucosal surfaces and open wounds.
- Do not occlude (no airtight dressings) unless your doctor instructs otherwise.
- Typical course is 1–2 weeks with review if symptoms persist.
Do not self-medicate. Facial/genital use or prolonged courses should only occur if explicitly directed by your doctor.
Benefits (When Used Under Medical Supervision)
- Rapid relief of itch, redness and swelling.
- Broad coverage when inflammation, fungi and bacteria are involved together.
- Supports short-term skin recovery and barrier restoration.
- May reduce recurrence when combined with proper skincare and trigger control.
Precautions & Possible Side Effects
- Avoid prolonged or unsupervised use—topical steroids can thin skin with overuse.
- Inform your doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or using other topical/ systemic medicines.
- Possible effects: mild burning/stinging, dryness, irritation; rare allergic reactions.
- Stop and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected.
Comparison With Other Doctor-Prescribed Topical Creams
| Type / Feature | Gentrisone Cream | Combiderm Cream | Generic Prescribed Anti-Inflammatory Cream |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Mixed fungal & bacterial infection with inflammation | Infected eczema/dermatitis (anti-inflammatory + antibacterial ± antifungal) | General inflammation/itch without infection |
| Composition | Corticosteroid + Antifungal + Antibacterial | Corticosteroid + Antibacterial ± Antifungal | Corticosteroid only |
| Suitable For | Fungal eczema, ringworm, intertrigo | Bacterial-colonised eczema, infected rashes | Mild eczema/dermatitis without infection |
| Doctor Supervision | Required (POM) | Required (POM) | Required (POM) |
| Typical Duration | 1–2 weeks with review | 1–2 weeks | Up to ~1 week or as advised |
| Precautions | Avoid long-term/facial use unless prescribed | Avoid overuse on thin skin | Follow limited duration; review if persistent |
| Availability (SG) | Prescription-only | Prescription-only | Prescription-only |
Where to Buy in Singapore (With Prescription)
- Licensed medical clinics / dermatology practices: dispensed after doctor’s consultation.
- Hospital or authorised retail pharmacies: upon presenting a valid prescription.
Indicative price range: typically S$8–S$20 per 10–15 g tube (brand and size dependent), excluding consultation fees. Actual prices vary by provider/manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions (10)
1) Is Gentrisone Cream safe?
Yes—when prescribed and monitored by a doctor for short-term use. Unsupervised or prolonged use raises risks (e.g., skin thinning).
2) Can I buy Gentrisone over the counter?
No. It is a prescription-only medicine under Singapore law.
3) How often should I apply it?
Usually once or twice daily as directed, for 1–2 weeks. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
4) Can I use it on my face or genital area?
Only if your doctor explicitly prescribes it, as these areas are more sensitive to topical steroids.
5) What if I miss a dose?
Apply when remembered unless it’s close to the next dose—do not double-apply.
6) How soon will I see improvement?
Many patients notice relief within a few days; complete recovery may take 1–2 weeks depending on diagnosis.
7) When should I stop?
Stop at the end of the prescribed course or if irritation worsens. Check with your doctor before discontinuing early.
8) What are common side effects?
Mild stinging, dryness or redness. Overuse can thin skin. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
9) Is it safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Use only if your doctor deems it necessary. Avoid application near the breast area while nursing.
10) What are alternatives if Gentrisone isn’t suitable?
Your doctor may choose non-steroidal creams, antifungal-only options, or other targeted therapies based on your condition.
Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or product promotion. Always consult a licensed medical professional for diagnosis and appropriate prescription. Public advertising of prescription medicines is restricted by Singapore law.
