Halcinonide
Research suggests that clobetasol propionate demonstrates superior pharmacologic efficacy in the treatment of psoriasis when compared to halcinonide
:Dosage Forms & Strengths
Cream/Ointment: 0.1%
Mechanism of effect
Corticosteroids decrease inflammation by stabilizing leukocyte lysosomal membranes, preventing release of destructive acid hydrolases from leukocytes; inhibiting macrophage accumulation in inflamed areas; reducing leukocyte adhesion to capillary endothelium; reducing capillary wall permeability and edema formation; decreasing complement components; antagonizing histamine activity and release of kinin from substrates; reducing fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition, and subsequent scar tissue formation
Pharmacodynamic
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Minimal; nature of skin at application; occlusion and inflammation may increase absorption
Metabolism: liver
Excretion: Urine
Dosage
Topical: Apply sparingly 2-3 times/day; for severe dermatoses may use occlusive dressing
Thin film is effective
Alerts
Chronic topical corticosteroid therapy may interfere with growth and development in children
Use med to very high potency for <2 wk to reduce local and systemic side effects
Use low potency for chronic therapy
Kaposi's sarcoma reported with prolonged corticosteroid therapy
Children may exhibit greater susceptibility to corticosteroid-induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome due to larger skin surface area to body weight ratio
Points of recommendation
Skin atrophy, Striae, Intracranial hypertension, Contact dermatitis, Perioral dermatitis, Burning, Irritation, Folliculitis, Hypertrichosis, Acneform lesions, Pigmentation changes, HPA suppression with higher potency used >2 wk
:Contraindications
Underlying infection, Hypersensitivity and Ophthalmic use
Pregnancy level
Pregnancy Category: C
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