Mometasone furoate 0.1% w/w: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Prescription required (Schedule H)
Common uses: Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – red, itchy, inflamed skin; Psoriasis plaques on the body (not widespread or scalp-only psoriasis unless advised).
Listed MRPs range from ₹1.13 to ₹16.50 per g across 7 listings. Use only on a doctor's prescription.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / g | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mometasone Furoate Cream IP 0.1%w/wJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 15 g | ₹16.88 | ₹1.13 | 19 October 2026 |
| Elocon | Abbott | 50 g | ₹100.31 | ₹2.01 | 19 October 2026 |
| Elmovel | Leeford Healthcare Ltd | 10 g | ₹65.00 | ₹6.50 | 19 October 2026 |
| Momesone | Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 25 g | ₹215.00 | ₹8.60 | 19 October 2026 |
| Momoz | Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 10 g | ₹130.97 | ₹13.10 | 19 October 2026 |
| Momtas | Oaknet Healthcare Pvt Ltd | 20 g | ₹290.48 | ₹14.52 | 19 October 2026 |
| Momate | Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 20 g | ₹330.00 | ₹16.50 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – red, itchy, inflamed skin.
- Psoriasis plaques on the body (not widespread or scalp-only psoriasis unless advised).
- Contact dermatitis and other itchy rashes that respond to steroids.
- Short-term relief of severe insect-bite reactions or allergic skin flares, on a doctor's advice.
How to take it
Apply a thin layer to the affected skin once a day and rub in gently; wash your hands afterwards unless your hands are being treated. It is a potent steroid cream, so use it only on the areas your doctor has shown you and for the shortest time needed – do not use it on the face for more than 5 days, and not on any part of a child's body for more than 5 days unless a dermatologist directs. Do not cover the area with a bandage or plaster, and do not put it under a baby's nappy. If the rash comes back within two weeks of stopping, see your doctor rather than restarting on your own. Do not use it on infected skin, acne, rosacea or around the eyes, and never use it as a fairness or general itch cream.
Side effects
Common
- Burning, stinging or itching where it is applied.
- Dry skin or irritation.
- Spots or inflamed hair follicles.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Thinning of the skin, stretch marks, visible blood vessels or lightening of skin colour with prolonged use.
- Skin infection getting worse or appearing under the cream – stop and see a doctor.
- Rebound flare or widespread redness after stopping long-term use.
- Rarely, with large amounts over a long time, body-wide steroid effects such as a round face, weakness or, in children, slowed growth.
Safety information
Alcohol
Alcohol does not interact with a steroid cream.
Pregnancy
Tell your doctor before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; small amounts on limited areas may be allowed, but do not apply it to the breast before feeding.
Kidney problems
No kidney concern with normal skin use.
Liver problems
No liver concern with normal skin use.
Children
Not recommended under 2 years. In older children use it for no more than 5 days at a time and only as prescribed – children absorb more steroid through their skin.
Missed dose
Apply it as soon as you remember, then carry on as before. Do not apply extra to make up.
Interactions
- Other steroid creams or combination creams (such as those with clotrimazole or neomycin) – do not layer them unless your doctor has said so.
- Steroid tablets or inhalers – the total steroid load adds up; tell your doctor.
- Over-the-counter "itch" or skin-lightening creams sold in India often already contain steroids – do not combine.
Frequently asked questions
What is Momate cream used for?
Momate contains mometasone furoate 0.1%, a potent steroid. It is prescribed for eczema, psoriasis plaques and other inflamed, itchy rashes, used once a day for a short course.
Can I use Momate cream on my face?
Only if a doctor has advised it, and for no more than 5 days. Facial skin is thin, and steroid creams can cause thinning, acne-like spots and rebound redness.
Can Momate cream be used for pimples or dark spots?
No. Mometasone does not treat acne or pigmentation and can make acne worse and lighten skin unevenly. Steroid creams are widely misused in India as fairness creams – avoid this.
How many times a day should I apply Elocon?
Once a day, as a thin layer on the affected area only. Using it more often or on larger areas increases side effects without extra benefit.
Is Momate safe for babies and children?
It is not recommended under 2 years. For older children a doctor may prescribe it for up to 5 days; do not apply it under a nappy or cover it with a dressing.
Momate vs Momate-F – what is the difference?
Momate contains only mometasone. Momate-F and similar combination creams add an antifungal, meant for rashes with a fungal component. Using the wrong one can worsen a fungal infection, so follow your doctor's choice.
Can I use Momate cream for a fungal infection or ringworm?
No. A steroid alone makes ringworm spread and harder to treat. Ringworm needs an antifungal cream; see a doctor if you are unsure what the rash is.
What happens if I use Momate for a long time?
Prolonged use can thin the skin, cause stretch marks and visible veins, and the rash may rebound when you stop. Use it only for the duration your doctor has set.
Is Momate available without a prescription?
Mometasone is a Schedule H medicine and chemists should ask for a prescription. Steroid creams bought over the counter are a common cause of skin damage, so use it only under medical advice.
Sources
- eMC – Elocon Cream patient leaflet (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms