Topical corticosteroids
Posted by dkwinter

 

Ultra-high potency:

Clobetasol propionate 0.05%

Cream/Ointment/Scalp lotion/Topical solution/topical spray
High potency:

Betamethasone dipropionate 0.05%

Cream/Ointment/Lotion

Fluocinonide 0.1% cream
High potency:

Desoximetasone 0.05% Gel

Fluocinonide 0.05% Gel
Medium potency:

Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% Cream/Ointment/Dental ointment
Medium potency:

Betamethasone valerate 0.05% Cream/Ointment/Lotion (0.05-0.1%)
Low potency:

Hydrocortisone 2.5% (Rx)

Cream/Ointment/Lotion/Scalp solution

Hydrocortisone 0.5-1.0% (OTC)

Cream/Ointment/Lotion (1% only)

Note:

  • Dovobet=Betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% + calcipotriol 50 mcg/g
    • Usual rx: dovobet gel 0.05%/0.005% AAA daily disp 120 g

 

Steroid alternative

  • Tacrolimus (calcineurin inhibitor) is available as 0.03-0.1% ointment
  • Pimecrolimus 1% aaa bid disp 30g

 

Creams

  • Less occlusive
  • Fine for dry lesions

 

Ointments

  • More occlusive
  • More effective for dry and scaly lesions
  • Relatively more potent than creams

 

Gels

  • Least occlusive
  • Quick drying
  • May be irritating

 

Lotions or solutions

  • Better for weeping lesions
  • Better for hairy areas

 

Foams

  • Good for hairy areas

 

Non-steroid emmolients

  • Initial or adjunctive treatment for dry, oily, sensitive skin
  • E.g. Aveeno, Eucerin, Glaxal Base, Keri, Neutrogena, Nutraderm, Vaseline

 

Non-steroid humectant

  • Lac-Hydrin 12% (Cream, Foam, Lotion)