Corticosteroid ointments can be used in their pure form. Corticosteroids: inhalation drugs, topical drugs, list of drops, ointments, tablets

Corticosteroids belong to a subclass of steroid hormone medications. In a healthy body, these hormones are produced by the adrenal glands. Each patient receiving hormonal therapy is recommended to familiarize himself in detail with what corticosteroids are, what drugs they are, how they differ and how they act on the body. You should especially carefully read the sections on contraindications and side effects.

Indications for use

Corticosteroids have a wide range of uses. Thus, cortisone and hydrocortisone have indications for use:

rheumatism;
rheumatoid arthritis in various manifestations;
malignant and benign tumors (at the discretion of the doctor);
bronchial asthma, allergies;
autoimmune diseases (external vitiligo, lupus);
skin diseases (eczema, lichen);
glomerulonephritis;
Crohn's disease;
hemolytic anemia;
ulcerative colitis and acute pancreatitis;
bronchitis and pneumonia, fibrosing alveolitis;
to improve the survival rate of transplanted organs;
infection of the organs of vision (uveitis, keratitis, scleritis, iritis, iridocyclitis);
prevention and treatment of shock conditions;
neuralgia.

Aldosterone, like any corticosteroid, is permissible for use only with the approval of a doctor. The drug has a much more modest list of indications for use. It includes several diseases:

Addison's disease (occurs due to dysfunction of the adrenal glands);
myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness in the presence of autosomal pathologies);
disorders of mineral metabolism;
adynamia.

Classification

Natural corticosteroids are hormones of the adrenal cortex, which are divided into glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. The first include cortisone and hydrocortisone. These are steroids with an anti-inflammatory effect; they control puberty, the response to stress, kidney function, and the course of pregnancy. They are inactivated in the liver and excreted in the urine.

Mineralocorticosteroids include aldosterone, which retains sodium ions and increases the excretion of potassium ions from the body. In medicine, synthetic corticosteroids are used, which have the same properties as natural ones. They temporarily suppress the inflammatory process. Synthetic corticosteroids lead to tension, stress, can reduce immunity, and block the regeneration process.

Corticosteroids should not be used for a long time. One of the disadvantages of these drugs is the suppression of the function of natural hormones, which can lead to disruption of the adrenal glands. Relatively safe drugs are Prednisolone, Triamcinolone, Dexamethasone and Sinalar, which have high activity but fewer side effects.

Release forms

Corticosteroids are available in the format of tablets, capsules with prolonged or immediate action, solutions in ampoules, ointments, creams, and liniments. There are types:

For internal use: Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Budenofalk, Cortisone, Cortineff, Medrol.
Injections: Hydrocortisone, Diprospan, Kenalog, Medrol, Flosteron.
Inhalations: Beclomethasone, Flunisolide, Ingacort, Sintaris.
Nasal aerosols: Budesonide, Pulmicort, Rhinocort, Flixotide, Flixonase, Triamcinolone, Fluticasone, Azmacort, Nazacort.
Topical preparations for local use: ointment Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone, Lokoid, Cortade, Fluorocort, Lorinden, Sinaflan, Flucinar, Clobetasol.
Creams and corticosteroid ointments: Afloderm, Laticort, Dermovate
Lotions: Lorinden
Gels: Flucinar.

Preparations for internal use

The most popular drugs from the corticosteroid group are oral tablets and capsules. These include:

Prednisolone – has powerful antiallergic and anti-inflammatory effects. Contraindications: stomach ulcer, intestinal pathologies, vaccination, hypertension, tendency to form blood clots in blood vessels. Dosage: once a day 5–60 mg/day, but not more than 200 mg. Children's dosage: 0.14–0.2 mg/kg body weight in 3–4 divided doses. the course of treatment lasts a month.
Celeston – contains betamethasone as an active ingredient. Contraindications: myocardial infarction, hypertension, endocrine disorders, glaucoma, syphilis, tuberculosis, poliomyelitis, osteoporosis. The principle of action is to suppress natural immune reactions. Compared to Hydrocortisone, it has a greater anti-inflammatory effect. Dosage: 0.25–8 mg for adults, 17–250 mcg/kg body weight for children. Cancellation of treatment occurs gradually.
Kenacort - stabilizes cell membranes, relieves symptoms of allergies and inflammation. Contraindications: psychosis, chronic nephritis, complex infections, fungal infections. The active substance triamcinolone is used in an adult dosage of 4–24 mg/day in divided doses. The dose is reduced by 2–3 mg every 2–3 days.
Cortineff - tablets contain fludrocortisone acetate. Contraindications: systemic mycosis. Dosage: from 100 mcg three times a week to 200 mcg/day. Cancellation is carried out gradually.
Metypred – contains methylprednisolone. Contraindications: individual intolerance. The drug is used with caution during pregnancy, complex infections, psychosis, and endocrine abnormalities. Tablets are taken after meals at a dose of 4–48 mg/day in 2–4 doses. The pediatric dosage is 0.18 mg/kg body weight.
Berlicort - tablets based on triamcinolone, are contraindicated for ulcers, osteoporosis, psychosis, mycoses, tuberculosis, poliomyelitis, glaucoma. Dosage: 0.024–0.04 g/day once a day after breakfast.
Florinef – contains fludrocortisone. Contraindications: psychosis, herpes, amoebiasis, systemic mycosis, the period before and after vaccination. Dosage: from 0.1 mg three times a week to 0.2 mg/day. The dose is reduced in case of arterial hypertension.
Urbazon is a powder for oral use that contains methylprednisolone. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, herpes, chicken pox, mental disorders, poliomyelitis, glaucoma. Dosage: 30 mg/kg body weight.

Topical corticosteroids

Topical products are intended for local application. Corticosteroid drugs are available in the format of gels, ointments, creams, liniments:

Prednisolone - used in dermatology, gynecology, ophthalmology. Contraindications: tumors, viral, fungal diseases, rosacea, acne, perioral dermatitis. Dosage: 1–3 times a day in a thin layer, in ophthalmology – three times a day for a course of no longer than two weeks.
Hydrocortisone is an eye ointment based on hydrocortisone acetate. Contraindications: vaccination, violation of the integrity of the epithelium, trachoma, eye tuberculosis. Dosage: 1–2 cm 2–3 times/day into the conjunctival sac.
Lokoid - contains hydrocortisone 17-butyrate. Contraindications: post-vaccination period, dermatitis, fungal and viral skin lesions. Dosage: apply a thin layer 1–3 times/day; if improvement occurs, switch to applying ointment 2–3 times/week.
Lorinden A and C are ointments containing flumethasone pivalate and salicylic acid (A) or flumethasone pivalate and clioquinol (C). Used for the treatment of acute and chronic allergic dermatoses. Contraindicated in childhood, pregnancy, viral skin lesions. Used 2-3 times/day, can be applied under an occlusive dressing.
Sinaflan is an antiallergic ointment; its active substance is fluocinolone acetonide. Use with caution during puberty; contraindicated for diaper rash, pyoderma, blastomycosis, hemangioma, and during lactation. The product is applied to the skin 2–4 times/day for a course of 5–25 days.
Flucinar is an anti-inflammatory gel or ointment against psoriasis. Contraindicated during pregnancy, anogenital itching. Apply 1–3 times/day. It's inexpensive.

Inhaled corticosteroids

For diseases of the respiratory tract, the use of drugs in the format of sprays or solutions for inhalation is indicated. Popular intranasal corticosteroids:

Becotide is a metered dose aerosol containing beclomethasone dipropionate, treats bronchial asthma. Contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the ingredients. It is prescribed at a dose of 200-600 mcg/day in several doses; if asthma is severe, the dose is doubled. Children over 4 years old are prescribed 400 mcg/day.
Aldecin (Aldecim) is a spray based on beclomethasone dipropionate. Contraindicated for tuberculosis, hemorrhagic diathesis, frequent nosebleeds. 1–2 inhalations into each nostril 4 times a day are recommended, for children – twice a day.
Beconase - a spray containing beclomethasone helps with chronic rhinitis and pharyngitis. Dosage: 2 injections twice/day or one 3-4 times/day.
Ingacort is an aerosol based on flunisolide. Indicated 1 mg/day (2 injections into the nostrils twice/day) for a course of 4–6 weeks. Prohibited if you are allergic to the components.
Sintaris is a medicine for bronchial asthma containing flunisolide. Contraindicated in acute bronchospasm, non-asthmatic bronchitis. Dose: up to 8 inhalations/day for adults and up to two for children.
Pulmicort is a sterile suspension based on micronized budesonide. Inhalations are prohibited for use in children under six months of age. Dosage: 1 mg/day once.
Nazacort is a nasal spray with the active substance triamcinolone. Indicated for the treatment and prevention of seasonal and allergic rhinitis. Contraindications: age under 6 years, pregnancy, hepatitis C. Dosage: 220 mcg/day (2 injections) once, for children 6–12 years old – half as much.

For injection

Injectable corticosteroids are indicated for intravenous, subcutaneous and intramuscular administration. Popular ones include:

Prednisolone – used for emergency treatment. Contraindicated in children during the period of growth and in case of allergies to the components of the composition. It is administered intravenously or intramuscularly at a dose of 100–200 mg over a course of 3–16 days. Long-term therapy is withdrawn gradually.
Hydrocortisone is an injection suspension that can be injected into joints or lesions to speed up metabolism. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, pathological bleeding. Initial dose 100–500 mg, then repeated every 2–6 hours. Children's dose – 25 mg/kg/day.
Kenalog is a suspension for systemic and intra-articular administration. Contraindicated in acute psychosis, osteoporosis, diabetes. Dosage for exacerbations is prescribed individually. If the dose is exceeded, the patient may swell.
Flosterone is a suspension containing betamethasone disodium phosphate and betamethasone dipropionate, prescribed for systemic or intra-articular use. Contraindicated for gastric ulcers, thrombophlebitis, history of arthroplasty, lactation. Dose: 0.5–2 ml into the joint every 1–2 weeks. For systemic use, intramuscular injection deep into the gluteal muscle is indicated.
Medrol - contains methylprednisolone, indicated for use in ophthalmology, dermatology, and for joint lesions. Dose: 4–48 mg/day, children – 0.18 mg/kg body weight/day in three divided doses.

How to use

Corticosteroid therapy should be accompanied by calcium supplements to eliminate the risk of osteoporosis. The patient follows a diet rich in protein and calcium products, limits the intake of carbohydrates and salt (up to 5 g/day), and fluids (1.5 l/day). To reduce the negative impact of corticosteroids on the digestive tract, patients can take Almagel and jelly. Smoking and alcohol should disappear from their lives, and sports should appear. Reception regimens:

Methylprednisolone is administered intravenously at 40–60 mg every 6 hours, Prednisolone – 30–40 mg once a day. Glucocorticoids begin to act 6 hours after administration; it is optimal to halve their dose every 3–5 days. Long-acting drugs are not used to treat bronchial asthma; instead, inhaled drugs are used (the course lasts up to several months). After using aerosols and throat sprays, you should rinse your mouth to prevent the occurrence of candidiasis.
For allergies, intravenous administration of drugs is indicated, which begin to act after 2–8 hours. For psoriasis, topical (local) products are used in the format of creams and ointments. Systemic hormonal drugs are contraindicated because they can aggravate the course of the disease. Local corticosteroid hormones are used twice a day; at night they can be applied under an occlusive dressing. The area of the entire body should not contain more than 30 g of the drug, otherwise intoxication is inevitable.
Long-term use of glucocorticoids is accompanied by gradual withdrawal due to addiction. If medications are stopped quickly or suddenly, adrenal insufficiency may develop. When treated over several months, the dose is reduced by 2.5 mg every 3-5 days, with a longer duration of therapy - by 2.5 mg every 1-3 weeks. If the dose was less than 10 mg, then you need to reduce it by 1.25 mg every 3-7 days, if more - by 5-10 mg every 3 days. When the daily dose of drugs reaches a third of the original, it is reduced by 1.25 mg every 14–21 days.

To obtain the maximum benefit from treatment with corticosteroids, you must follow the rules for their use. Some recommendations for patients:

The break between taking pills should be at least 8 hours - this interval between releases into the blood is equal to natural mechanisms.
It is better to take medications with food.
Enrich the menu with proteins during treatment, reduce the amount of carbohydrates and salt.
Additionally, take calcium supplements and B vitamins to avoid osteoporosis.
Drink at least 1.5 liters of clean water a day, avoid alcohol.
Do not increase or decrease the dosage of injections and tablets. An overdose is dangerous due to side effects.
The optimal duration of therapy is 5-7 days, the maximum is 3 months.

Treatment methods

The treatment method is individually selected for each patient. They differ in some characteristics:

Intensive - medications are administered intravenously, indicated for extremely severe conditions.
Limiting - tablets are used, people with chronic forms of diseases are treated.
Alternating – a gentle, intermittent medication regimen is indicated.
Intermittent - drugs are taken in courses of 3-4 days with intervals between them of 4 days.
Pulse therapy - a large dose of drugs is administered intravenously.

Use by children and women during pregnancy

The use of tableted glucocorticoids for children occurs for exceptional indications - if these are vital situations. Thus, for broncho-obstructive syndrome, 2–4 mg/kg of body weight of Prednisolone can be administered intravenously, repeating the procedure every 2–4 hours, reducing the dose by 20–50% each time. In case of hormonal dependence (bronchial asthma), the child is transferred to maintenance therapy with Prednisolone. If your baby often suffers from relapses of asthma, then he is advised to take Beclomethasone inhalations.

Topical creams, ointments, and gels should be used with caution in pediatric practice, because they can inhibit growth, cause Cushing's syndrome, and disrupt the functioning of the endocrine glands. Ointments and creams should be used on a minimal area and for a limited course. Children of the first year of life can only apply ointments with 1% hydrocortisone or Dermatol, up to 5 years - Hydrocortisone 17-butyrate. Children over 2 years of age are allowed to use Mometasone ointment. For the treatment of atopic dermatitis, Advantan is suitable for a course of up to 4 weeks.

The use of corticosteroids is undesirable during pregnancy because they penetrate the placental barrier and may affect fetal blood pressure. The entry of synthetic hormones into the blood of a pregnant woman imitates a stress signal for the developing child, so the fetus speeds up the use of reserves. The drugs suppress the immune system; new generation drugs are not deactivated by placental enzymes.

In obstetric practice, Metypred, Dexamethasone, and Prednisolone can be used. Corticosteroid therapy with them causes fewer side effects. If you use other drugs, the fetus may experience growth retardation, suppression of the function of the pituitary gland, adrenal glands and hypothalamus. Indications for the use of glucocorticoids during pregnancy:

threat of premature birth;
active phases of rheumatism and autoimmune diseases;
hereditary intrauterine hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex fetus.

Side effects

The use of weakly or moderately active agents rarely leads to side effects. High doses and the use of active drugs are accompanied by negative reactions:

the appearance of edema;
increased blood pressure;
gastritis;
increased blood sugar levels, steroid diabetes mellitus;
osteoporosis;
inflammation, skin rashes, increased pigmentation;
increased formation of blood clots;
weight gain;
sinusitis;
conjunctivitis;
hives;
anaphylactic attack;
increased levels of prostaglandins;
bacterial and fungal infections against the background of secondary immunodeficiency;
glaucoma, cataract;
acne;
hypokalemia
depression, mood lability;
Itsenko-Cushing syndrome (deposition of fat on the face, neck, chest, abdomen, atrophy of the muscles of the limbs, bruising on the skin, stretch marks on the abdomen, impaired hormone production).

Contraindications

Before prescribing a course of corticosteroids, the doctor checks the list of contraindications. Low levels of potassium in the blood, high blood pressure, hepatic-renal failure, diabetes mellitus, and glaucoma are grounds for prohibiting mineralocorticoids. General contraindications for corticosteroids are:

high sensitivity to the drug;
severe infection (excluding septic shock and meningitis);
chicken pox;
phimosis;
development of immunity using a live vaccine.

Rules for taking glucocorticoids provide for careful use of drugs in the following cases:

diabetes;
stomach and duodenal ulcers;
ulcerative colitis;
cirrhosis of the liver;
high blood pressure;
vascular heart failure in the stage of decompensation;
tendency to thrombosis;
tuberculosis.

Drug interactions

The high involvement of corticosteroids in vital regulatory processes has led to diverse interactions with substances and groups of drugs:

antacids reduce the absorption of glucocorticoids taken orally;
Difenin, Carbamazepine, Diphenhydramine, barbiturates, Rifampicin, Hexamidine increase the rate of metabolism of glucocorticoids in the liver, and Isoniazid and Erythromycin inhibit it;
glucocorticoids help remove salicylates, Digitoxin, Butadione, Penicillin, Chloramphenicol, barbiturates, Diphenin, Isoniazid from the body;
joint use of glucocorticoids with Isoniazid can cause mental disorder, and with Reserpine - depression;
concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants with corticosteroids increases the risk of increased intraocular pressure;
long-term use of glucocorticoids increases the effect of taking adrenergic agonists;
glucocorticoids and Theophylline provoke a cardiotoxic effect and increase the anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoids;
diuretics and Amphotericin together with corticosteroids increase the risk of hypokalemia and increase the diuretic effect;
simultaneous use of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids increases hypernatremia and hypokalemia;
if there is a diagnosis of hypokalemia, side effects of cardiac glycosides may develop;
glucocorticoids in combination with indirect coagulants Ibuprofen, Butadione, Ethacrynic acid can provoke manifestations of hemorrhoids, and Indomethacin and salicates - ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract;
glucocorticoids increase the toxic load of paracetamol on the liver;
the anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoids decreases when taking Retinol together;
simultaneous use of hormones with Methandrostenolone, Chingamine, Azathioprine increases the risk of developing cataracts;
glucocorticoids reduce the effect of Cyclophosphamide, the effectiveness of sugar-lowering drugs, and the antiviral effect of Idoxuridine;
estrogens increase the effect of glucocorticoids;
if taking glucocorticoids is combined with therapy with iron and androgens, this can increase the production of red blood cells;
in combination with the use of glucocorticoids with anesthesia, the initial stage of anesthesia increases, and the duration of the overall effect is reduced;
Corticosteroids taken with alcohol increase the risk of peptic ulcers.

Price

There are a variety of drugs from the group of corticosteroids on sale. Their cost depends on the form of release and the seller’s pricing policy. In Moscow you can buy medicines or order them at the following prices:

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Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and make recommendations for treatment based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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The adrenal cortex performs a secreting function, producing corticosteroids. These are biologically active hormones, including mineral (aldosterone) and glucocorticoids (cortisone).

Natural corticosteroids control the following processes in the body:

metabolism of minerals (retain sodium ions and remove potassium);
the process of puberty;
metabolism of lipids, proteins and carbohydrates;
stress reactions;
the course of pregnancy;
block the production of inflammatory mediators.

Synthetic corticosteroids have properties similar to natural hormones.

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Irina Martynova. Graduated from Voronezh State Medical University named after. N.N. Burdenko. Clinical resident and neurologist of the BUZ VO \"Moscow Polyclinic\".

They can eliminate symptoms of the inflammatory process(pain relief, swelling and redness relief, local temperature reduction). Synthetic molecules of corticosteroids are integrated into the cycle of metabolic reactions natural to the body, removing natural hormones from them, which disrupts the functioning of the adrenal cortex and hormonal balance in general. In this regard, drugs based on synthetic corticosteroids are prescribed by a doctor when non-hormonal medications are not effective.

Release forms of synthetic corticosteroids

Synthetic corticosteroids have the following release forms:

tablets (capsules);
solutions in ampoules for injection;
topical corticosteroids, which are used externally (ointments, creams);
forms for inhalation.

Let us dwell in detail on the most popular and prescribed drugs.

Prednisolone tablets

They have a powerful anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect. The medication is contraindicated for peptic ulcers of the stomach and intestines, during the vaccination period, for hypertension and a tendency to form blood clots in blood vessels.

The price for a package of 100 pieces is about 120 rubles. Prednisolone may come in a liquid corticosteroid injection form.

Celeston

It has betamethasone as an active ingredient. Tablets are not prescribed for the following pathologies: after myocardial infarction, hypertension, endocrine disorders, glaucoma, severe infections (syphilis, tuberculosis), osteoporosis, poliomyelitis. Inhibits natural immune responses.

The anti-inflammatory effect is 30 times more effective compared to hydrocortisone.

Kenacort tablets

The drug has a stabilizing effect on cell membranes, eliminates symptoms of inflammation and allergies. Do not use for psychosis, chronic nephritis, complex infections and fungal infections.

50 tablets of 10 mg each cost about 200 rubles.

Betamethasone dipropionate is present as an active component. Injections with the drug are effective for the following pathologies: shock of various natures, cerebral edema, acute adrenal insufficiency. "Diprosan" is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the composition, with infectious lesions, with diseases of the digestive organs, hypothyroidism, hypertension, with complex pathology of the kidneys and liver.

1 ampoule of the medicine costs about 200 rubles.

Kenalog

The active component of the drug is . The medicine is distinguished by its gentle effect on the body, the absence of influence on the functioning of the pituitary gland and mineral metabolism in the body.

A box with 5 ampoules of the drug costs about 400 rubles.

The active component of the product is methylprednisolone. Contraindicated for fungal infections and individual intolerance.

Topical corticosteroids for external use

Topical corticosteroids are classified as follows:

weak activity (“ ”, “Lokoid”, “Cortade”);
moderately active (Afloderm, Esperson, Laticort);
highly active (“Kuterid”, “Cutivate”, “Elokom”);
very highly active (Dermovate, Clobetasol).

The most used corticosteroid ointments

Lokoid

The active component hydrocortisone has an antipruritic, anti-inflammatory effect, eliminates swelling.

30 grams of the drug cost about 300 rubles.

Lorinden S

The composition has an antimycotic effect. It is used for allergic and inflammatory processes complicated by a fungal component.

The price per tube starts at 330 rubles.

Fluorocort – triamcinolone-based ointment

It perfectly relieves itching, swelling and redness.

The cost of a tube is about 250 rubles.

Fucidin G

In addition to hydrocortisone, the product contains fusidic acid, which has an antibiotic effect. Compound Suitable for children over 2 years of age.

The cream will cost 450 rubles, the ointment – 400.

The nuances of using topical agents

The choice of remedy depends on the severity, localization and depth of the process. It must be carried out by a doctor;
depending on the dynamics of the process on the skin, a correction is carried out with a change in the drug of choice;
After symptoms are relieved, switch to a hormone-free product.

Inhaled forms of corticosteroids

Corticosteroids in the form of inhalation solutions are effective reduce membrane permeability, limit the release of proteolytic enzymes beyond the lysosomes. High concentrations of the substance are created locally in the walls of the bronchial action, which minimizes the systemic effect.

Nasal corticosteroids effectively eliminate inflammatory and allergic manifestations and are used in the form of inhalations through the nose.

Beclamitozone (Aldecim, Becotide, Beklokort)

The active substance reduces the secretion of prostaglandins and the production of pathological exudate. Contraindications include children under 6 years of age and individual intolerance.

A bottle of 200 mcg of Beclamizone costs 300–400 rubles.

Beclamizon-nasal, Beconase

They are used as nasal corticosteroids, eliminating swelling and hyperemia in the nasal mucosa.

A bottle of Beconase costs about 300 rubles.

Flunisalide (Ingacort)

Effective for bronchial asthma, obstructive bronchitis and chronic rhinitis.

Contraindicated in the 1st trimester of pregnancy, for children under 5 years of age, with fungal infections, active form of tuberculosis.

Major side effects of corticosteroids

If you use corticosteroids for a long time, side effects develop In most cases.

Preparations:

disrupt the ionic composition of biological fluids of the body, promoting alkalization of the blood;
provoke the development of steroid diabetes mellitus;
retain fluid, disrupting the functioning of the heart muscle;
loss of potassium ions leads to muscle weakness, and calcium – to osteoporosis, susceptibility to fractures;
reduce immune responses, increasing susceptibility to infections;
provoke adrenal insufficiency;
increase the risk of developing ulcerative lesions of the stomach and intestines.

Special cases of the use of corticosteroids

Childhood

Topical corticosteroids prescribed to children with caution. The smaller the child, the greater the ratio of surface area to body weight and the risk of developing systemic pathologies (developmental delay, hormonal imbalance, adrenal suppression). Children under one year of age are prescribed ointments that contain no more than 1% active hydrocortisone; Dermatol can be used.

After 2 years, Mometasone is allowed.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, corticosteroids are prescribed in exceptional cases when the result of use outweighs the possible risks to the fetus.

These are the following situations:

threat of premature birth of a baby;
active form of rheumatism;
intrauterine hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex in the fetus.

Corticosteroids, when used locally for short periods of time, practically do not pass into breast milk.

If the doses of drugs are high, this can cause disruption of the child’s development and suppression of the hormonal system.

For bronchial asthma

Corticosteroids are effective for bronchial asthma. They relieve the symptoms of inflammation, but do not dilate the bronchi. These medications are used during attacks when other means are not effective. After the attack has stopped, the dose of the active component is reduced gradually (by 2 times every 4 days). For bronchial asthma, corticosteroids in inhaled form are indicated. These are: “Beklozon Eco”, “Budesonide Forte”, “Pulmicort”, “Pulmicort Turvuhaler”, “Fluticonazole Propionate”.

For allergies

For complex forms of allergies, corticosteroids are effective; they are prescribed systemically and locally. List of drugs: “Betamethasone”, “Prednisolone”, “”, as well as their analogues.

Intranasal aerosols (Flucatisone, Beconase, Propionate) help with hay fever and allergic rhinitis.

For psoriasis

Sometimes, when treating an allergic reaction of the body to any irritant, specialists use corticosteroid drugs, but not all patients know what this is.

These hormonal agents can give a quick effect, relieve inflammation and swelling of tissues. But, like all other medications, they have contraindications and limitations in use.

It is important to understand their action, study the advantages, disadvantages and rules of use in order to understand why the doctor in one case or another prescribes such serious medications.

The essence of drugs is important

Knowing what corticosteroids are is important to understand how they work. These are steroid hormones that are naturally produced by the adrenal cortex. Their analogues are drugs with corticosteroids of synthetic origin, which are designed to compensate for the lack of hormones in the human body if necessary.

Main functions:

relieving inflammation;
control of kidney function;
regulation of hormonal balance;
normalization of metabolic processes;
reducing the body's sensitivity to stress.

Natural hormones are able to block the root cause of inflammation in the body, but they are not always enough to suppress the synthesis of inflammatory mediators. In this case, specialists resort to the help of drugs that are derivatives of cortisol, that is, a natural human hormone.

This group of drugs is used in the treatment of many diseases. Although corticosteroids do not have an analgesic effect, the pain goes away after the source of inflammation is eliminated. There is a certain condition of the patient when the use of these drugs helps to break the vicious circle of the pathological process. When the source of inflammation is suppressed and tissue swelling is relieved, it is possible to weigh everything correctly and decide on the correct course of further therapy.

You can often encounter an unjustified fear of a patient about taking hormonal drugs, but you should understand that nothing bad can happen if the drugs are administered as prescribed by a doctor, in particular, 5 times within 10 days. However, the benefits for a weakened body will be significant, since they not only suppress inflammation, but also activate protective properties to fight the disease.

Harm can only be caused by uncontrolled use of hormones for a month or more, which results in problems with the body’s self-regulation.

Features of synthetic hormones

The main advantage of corticosteroid hormones is their high efficiency and instant results, which sometimes save a person’s life. The drugs can not only eliminate inflammation and swelling of tissues due to allergies, but also enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy to suppress the further development of tumor processes.

Hormonal drugs are not able to neutralize the main cause of the pathology and the mechanism of its development. They only relieve unpleasant symptoms.

The use of corticosteroid medications is allowed if other means have not brought the desired result.

Indications for use are:

lichen;
psoriasis;
hives;
chicken pox;
lupus erythematosus;
multiple sclerosis;
rheumatoid diseases;
spinal cord damage;
tumor pathologies of the blood;
and dermatitis;
dysfunction of the immune system;
viral diseases (hepatitis, mononucleosis);
some types of malignant tumors;
impaired skin pigmentation due to immune failure;
severe allergic symptoms (, asthma attack, anaphylactic shock);
eye diseases of allergic and non-infectious properties (conjunctivitis, blepharitis).

Like other medications, corticosteroids have some contraindications. But experts say that they are not absolute, but relative. For example, if there is a direct threat to life in the case of angioedema or anaphylactic shock, then hormonal drugs are used, regardless of contraindications.

But when prescribing long-term therapy for them, you should definitely take into account:

osteoporosis;
epilepsy attacks;
arterial hypertension;
high blood sugar;
severe mental disorders;
acute heart failure;
chronic pathologies of the digestive system (ulcers).

Although hormones can effectively eliminate inflammation in the body in many diseases, they can also cause many side effects. This especially happens with long-term therapy with high dosages. Common side effects:

acne;
swelling;
arrhythmia;
neuritis;
psychoses;
myopathy;
glaucoma;
obesity;
pancreatitis;
insomnia;
headache;
amyotrophy;
development of cataracts;
increased appetite;
urolithiasis disease;
tendon damage;
fatty liver;
ischemic bone necrosis;
metabolic disease;
heart failure;
thinning of the skin;
active growth of facial hair;
delayed sexual development;
menstrual irregularities;
frequent urge to urinate;
blood clotting disorder;
causeless irritability;
intrauterine developmental delay.

Release forms for effective treatment

Synthetic corticosteroid medications are available in several basic forms:

pills;
solutions for inhalation;
solutions for injection of corticosteroids;
means for external use (cream,).

The most common and popular drugs with corticoids are shown in the table.

Group name	Drug name	Peculiarities
Corticosteroids tablets	Metipred	The active ingredient is methylprednisolone. Has a rapid anti-inflammatory effect. The dosage for an adult is 1 tablet per day, and the tablet must be swallowed whole without chewing. For children, the dosage is determined by the doctor. The duration of action is 18-36 hours. The main contraindication is hypersensitivity to the component. Has a number of restrictions: pregnancy, acute form of psychosis, complex infections, endocrine system disorders
	Celeston	The active component of the drug is betamethasone. The dosage is prescribed by the doctor based on the patient’s condition. The use of the drug for severe infections, glaucoma, hypertension, poliomyelitis, and after a myocardial infarction is unacceptable.
	Prednisolone	It has a strong anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect. The use of the drug in acute renal failure, stomach ulcers, tuberculosis, and pregnancy is unacceptable. May provoke side effects such as insomnia, edema, and immunodeficiency. The product can be produced in the form of ointments and injections.
	Kenacort	The medicine has a stabilizing effect, eliminating the symptoms of inflammation and allergies. The active ingredient is triamcinolone. Compared with other drugs, it has minimal negative effects on the digestive system and psyche
Solutions for injections	Flosteron	Thanks to the betanidozole included in its composition, it has a long-lasting effect. Contraindicated in glaucoma, tuberculosis, complex infections, viral diseases
	Kenalog	Compared to other similar drugs, it has a more gentle effect on the body, without affecting the function of the pituitary gland and metabolic processes. The active ingredient of the drug is triamcinolone
	Hydrocortisone	Effectively suppresses inflammation and allergy symptoms. Inadmissible for use in cases of psychosis, nephritis, severe hypertension, tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus
	Diprospan	The drug is recommended for use in cases of cerebral edema, acute adrenal insufficiency and shock of various types. The active ingredient is betamethasone dipropionate
External products	Elokom	Used to relieve negative symptoms of inflammation and annoying itching. The active ingredient is mometasone furoate. Contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to components
	Flucourt	The drug is indicated for childhood and atopic eczema, dermatitis of various types, and lichen. Contraindicated during pregnancy, during breastfeeding, under the age of 1 year, with individual sensitivity
		Used to relieve inflammation, swelling and itching. The active substance is hydrocortisone acetate. Do not use for rosacea, acne vulgaris, open wounds and ulcers, as well as in case of fungal, viral and bacterial skin lesions
	Lorinden S	The ointment is indicated for allergies with the addition of a secondary infection, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, herpes, eczema. Not recommended for use on large areas of skin
Inhaled corticosteroids	Nasobek	Recommended to eliminate rhinitis, as the main symptom of allergies. Active ingredient: beclomethasone
	Aldecin	Indicated for bronchial asthma of varying severity. The dosage of this inhaled corticosteroid is prescribed by the attending physician based on the patient's condition. After inhalation, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water.
	Beclomethasone	Relieves the unpleasant symptoms of allergies in the form of rhinitis. Use is possible from the age of six. Limitations include tuberculosis, nasal infections, cataracts, glaucoma, nosebleeds

This list of drugs with artificial corticosteroids in the form of injections, tablets and other forms is not provided for independent use, but in order to better understand medical prescriptions.

Types of medicines

Depending on the hormones they contain, synthetic corticosteroids are divided into the following types:

very strong action (Dermovate);
strong (Elokom, Celestoderm, Afloderm);
moderate (Flucinar, Fluorocort, Lorinden);
gentle action (, Prednisolone).

In addition, drugs with corticosteroid hormones are divided depending on the composition:

Fluoridated products. They have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, but the likelihood of side effects increases, so therapy should be carried out for no more than 1 week (Flumetasone, Betamethasone);
Fluoride free. They have a gentle effect, so the likelihood of side symptoms is minimal. When used on the face and in skin folds, the duration of therapy is 2 weeks, and in other cases 20 days are allowed (Mometasone furoate, Methylprednisolone aceponate).

Prescriptions for Special Patient Groups

Children

Treatment of children with systemic corticosteroids is prescribed when absolutely indicated. In case of broncho-obstructive syndrome, when the situation threatens the life of the child, it is recommended to administer Prednisolone intravenously. The dosage of the medicine is calculated based on individual characteristics. The procedure is repeated after 3-4 hours until the condition improves. Then the drug is discontinued.

In the case of a child’s hormonal dependence during the treatment of bronchial asthma, after administering the drug intravenously, it is impossible to radically interrupt the treatment and therefore he is gradually transferred to a moderate dosage of the drug. In case of regular attacks of the disease, it is recommended to use Beclamethasone dipropionate in the form of inhalations. The dosage and course of treatment are prescribed individually. If the situation improves, the child should be switched to a moderate dosage.

Corticosteroids in the form of ointments, creams and lotions are used in exceptional cases: the child’s body is hypersensitive to the effects of drugs, resulting in an increased risk of developmental and growth delays, and possible disruption of the endocrine glands.

For children under 1 year of age, the use of Prednicarbate (Dermatol) is allowed, and for children under 5 years of age - Hydrocortisone 17-butyrate. From the age of two, the use of Mometasone ointment is allowed, but it should be taken into account that the duration of action is 24 hours.

The choice of corticosteroid drugs for treating a child should be made exclusively by a doctor, since any self-medication can lead to serious consequences.

Pregnant

During pregnancy, even short-term use of corticosteroids can negatively affect the baby's health. This is due to the fact that they imitate stress for the baby, as a result of which the child’s body has to activate internal protective functions.

In addition, synthetic corticosteroids help reduce the immunity of a pregnant woman, therefore increasing susceptibility to viruses and infections, which negatively affects the fetus.

Taking medications of this type during pregnancy is possible only if the benefits are much higher than the risk of side effects for the child. Most often, Prednisolone is used to treat a woman during this period, and Metypred and Dexamethasone are used for the fetus. But the final decision is made by the doctor.

Safe use

It is important to know not only what these drugs are - corticosteroids, their list, but also the rules of use:

strictly follow the doctor’s instructions;
avoid getting medications into your eyes;
do not exceed the required dosage;
Before starting treatment, read the instructions and pay attention to contraindications.

In case of long-term use of hormones, it is impossible to abruptly stop treatment. The body must be gradually adjusted to a more moderate dosage. This is due to the fact that the drugs can suppress the function of the adrenal cortex and therefore, if suddenly discontinued, adrenal insufficiency may occur.

Corticosteroids are strong and effective medications, but their improper use can have detrimental effects on your health and can last for several years. Therefore, the use of tablets, ointments, creams and other drugs in this category should be carried out exclusively by the attending physician, taking into account the characteristics of the patient.

There is a fairly large group of drugs used in the treatment of dermatological pathologies such as dermatitis, allergic rashes, etc. These drugs are called corticosteroids among pharmacists.

general information

Corticosteroids are hormonal substances produced by the adrenal glands to regulate metabolic processes.

These hormones block the formation of prostaglandins, which, in fact, are the initiators of inflammatory processes. As a result of the correct use of corticosteroids, inflammatory symptoms disappear: itching and soreness are eliminated, swelling disappears, and purulent processes stop.

In addition to the therapeutic effect, glucocorticosteroids can cause adverse reactions associated with suppression of immune activity and atrophy of skin tissue.

Such undesirable effects should be taken into account when using drugs in this group. In the production of ointment products, analogues of human hormones of synthetic origin and various additives are used to enhance the therapeutic properties.

Corticosteroid ointments can be divided into several types:

Lungs - made on the basis of prednisolone or hydrocortisone;
Moderate – based on prednicarbate, fluocortolone, flumethasone (etc.);
Strong - these ointments are based on budesonite, mometasone, betamethasone, methylprednisolone and other corticosteroid hormonal substances (Elocom, Celestoderm B, Sinaflan, etc.);
Very strong are flumethasone-based drugs (Dermovate).

There is also a separate group of products of mixed origin, to which, in addition to corticosteroids, additional active ingredients with antifungal or antibacterial action are added, for example, Flucinar, Lorinden, etc.

The drugs of these groups differ from each other in the intensity of their therapeutic effects, so they are selected in accordance with the severity of a particular skin disease.

How to use correctly

Any drug of corticosteroid origin should be used only as prescribed by a doctor. The specialist will determine the duration of such therapy and the number of applications of the drug to the skin per day.

Most often, a single application to the affected area during the day with a thin layer is indicated. The duration of corticosteroid therapy depends on the extent of the disease.

Before you start using any of the drugs, read the instructions for it.

Popular drugs

Corticosteroid drugs in the form of ointment or cream have antipruritic, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects. Different dermatoses are treated with hormonal drugs with varying strengths.

For example, exudative psoriatic forms are treated with moderate corticosteroid ointments (Fluorocort, etc.), and more severe forms of pathology require the use of stronger drugs (Celestoderm B or Dermovate, etc.). Let's consider the most common means of this group.

The main active ingredient of the drug is methylprednisolone. Advantan helps suppress allergic and inflammatory reactions on the skin, relieves pain, itching and irritation, reduces erythema and swelling.

The active ingredients of the drug are betamethasone and gentamicin. Belogent has antipruritic, antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects.

After application, it quickly affects the skin and reduces pathological symptoms. Gentamicin functions as a bactericidal component that can destroy most pathogenic microorganisms, including strains. Side effects occur very rarely, manifesting themselves as pimples, burning or redness.

Beloderm, Celestoderm B

Instructions, price, reviews: , Celestoderm

The main active ingredient of the cream is betamethasone. The drug has antiallergic, vasoconstrictor, antipruritic, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects.

A more modern analogue of Beloderm is Celestoderm B. This remedy is also based on betamethasone and has an identical effect.

Its use in pediatrics is allowed in patients older than 6 months. Pregnant women can use this drug only in short courses and no more than once a day.

Hydrocortisone

Glucocorticosteroid drug with antiallergic and anti-inflammatory action. The active ingredient is hydrocortisone. The use of ointment is contraindicated during the period of vaccination, as well as infectious, viral and fungal diseases.

Glucocorticosteroid drug of synthetic origin. The main active ingredient is hydrocortisone.

Able to quickly provide antipruritic, anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects. If dosages are observed, it does not cause suppression of adrenal activity.

Long-term use of the drug can lead to increased levels of cortisol in the blood, but after stopping Lokoid, cortisol production returns to normal on its own.

Medicinal agent with anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial effects. The main active ingredients of Lorinden C are flumethasone and clioquinol.

Flumethasone is a glucocorticosteroid with vasoconstrictor and anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and antiallergic, anti-edema effects. Clioquinol is a substance active against yeast fungi, dermatophytes and gram-positive bacteria.

As a result of this composition, allergic and inflammatory reactions complicated by fungal and antibacterial infections are suppressed.

Prednisolone ointment

The main active component of Sinaflan and its analogue Flucinar is fluocinolone. These drugs have a pronounced anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effect.

They are easily absorbed through the skin, and in children the absorption is much higher than in adult patients. The duration of use of the drugs does not exceed 2 weeks.

Fluorocort

The active ingredient of the ointment is triamcinolone. Accumulating in the skin, this glucocorticosteroid drug reduces the manifestations of exudation and itching, provides anti-edema and anti-allergic effects. The daily dose of the drug is 15 g, the course of therapy is no more than 10 days.

Fucidin G

The main active ingredients of Fucidin G ointment are hydrocortisone and fusidic acid, which is an antibiotic substance. A combined glucocorticosteroid drug with increased anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects. Approved in pediatrics from 2 years. The duration of treatment is no more than 14 days. Do not confuse with regular Fucidin.

Elokom

Corticosteroid ointment with the active ingredient mometasone. It has an effect similar to other hormonal ointments. It is recommended to apply no more than once a day.

The duration of therapy depends on the tolerability of the drug and side effects. Contraindicated in children under 2 years of age.

Precautionary measures

Corticosteroid drugs can cause a variety of adverse reactions. The use of weak and moderate group drugs contributes to less severity and rare occurrence of undesirable effects. If treatment involves the use of such drugs in high doses or the use of an occlusive dressing or the use of highly active glucocorticosteroids, the following manifestations may occur:

Increased blood pressure;
Weight gain;
Menstrual irregularities;
Increased swelling;
Increased blood sugar, even steroid diabetes;
Gastrointestinal bleeding, formation or exacerbation of gastric ulcers;
Osteoporosis;
Increased rate of thrombosis;
Hypersweating;
Neurological disorders;
Skin atrophy;
Increased hair growth in the facial area;
Bone necrosis;
Increased susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infectious processes against the background of secondary immunodeficiency;
The occurrence of cataracts, glaucoma;
Acne;
Slow recovery of damaged tissues;
Suppression of adrenal activity;
Tendency to depression, mood swings.

With long courses of corticosteroid therapy, even the patient’s appearance may change:

Individual areas of fat form, for example on the neck (bull neck), abdomen, chest or face (moon face);
Muscle tissue atrophy occurs;
Striae and bruising appear on the skin.

To reduce the risk of unwanted manifestations, you need to monitor your condition and, at the slightest hint of a side effect, adjust the dosage of corticosteroids. In addition, during the course of corticosteroid therapy, it is recommended to limit the water-salt regime and calorie intake, and monitor weight changes.

Features of use in children

For pediatric patients, corticosteroid ointments or creams are prescribed exclusively in short courses and only on small areas. The fact is that children are more sensitive to the side effects of such drugs than adults. Therefore, up to a year in children’s treatment, only the latest generation drugs or drugs with 1% hydrocortisone are used; at 1-5 years of age, moderate strength drugs are used.

Attention! Only a doctor should prescribe the drug, since unauthorized prescription of such drugs can be dangerous for the child.

According to medical prescription, from 2 years of age you can use Metazon long-acting ointment, which is applied to the affected areas 1 r. per day. Advantan is often used against atopic dermatitis in children; it can be treated for a month, but only in small areas, since the ointment has side effects.

Features of use in pregnant women

The use of glucocorticosteroids in pregnant women has an extremely negative effect on the fetus, therefore the use of hormonal ointments during such a period is allowed only for a short course over a small area and only in cases where the expected therapeutic effect is higher than the risk of use.

According to research, the use of strong and very strong hormonal ointments in the treatment of pregnant women can cause placental insufficiency, lack of weight in the fetus or cleft palate. The use of corticosteroid ointments of weak or moderate strength is considered relatively safe and does not contribute to pregnancy problems or increase the risk of malformations.

6 comments

Good afternoon
8 months ago a reddish spot appeared on my temple. Now there is a spot on both the forehead and cheeks with a diameter of 5-10 mm, there is itching. I was treated by a dermatologist, having previously passed all possible tests, everything is in order, it is neither a fungus nor an infection. At first, Fucidin G cream and Claritin + Lactofiltrum were prescribed for 2 weeks, it helped slightly, the spots almost disappeared, but then they appeared again in the same places. The dermatologist prescribed Bepanten and Belogent, which also didn’t help much. I noticed that exacerbation appears after a stressful situation, fatigue, alcohol, sweating or being in a sauna is not allowed. Since December 2016, the dermatologist, throwing up her hands, sent her to a therapist, also passed all possible tests, found nothing, the therapist also threw up her hands...
What can you recommend? One is familiar with being treated against fungal spots on the body with IRUNIN tablets, SEBOZOL Shampoo, Mikospor and Thermikon Spray. It helps him.
Thank you!

Hello,
If they did a scraping and the analysis showed nothing, it means it’s not a fungus. Again, since corticosteroids help, the description is more like eczema or dermatitis. Usually in such cases, the acute phase can be relieved with hormonal ointment, but the disease is not completely cured.

Hello, please tell me how to apply diathesis on a 2-year-old child’s cheeks. She constantly scratches these sores and they don’t go away for a long time

Hello,

The first thing to do is adjust your diet. Mothers always take this fact with hostility, but without this nothing will help. Hormonal ointment is the last thing to use.

Good evening. I have a rash on my chin and stomach. She was treated with Azithromycin Baneocin ointment and wet lotions based on dimexide and ceftriaxone. There is an improvement, but new rashes still appear. Help with advice please. What else can you try?

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All information is presented for educational purposes. Do not self-medicate, it is dangerous! Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis.

Corticosteroid drugs (CS) are analogues of glucocorticoid hormones. True hormones are produced by the adrenal glands. The substances support metabolic processes and relieve inflammation, swelling, pain and other symptoms.

Medicinal substitutes for natural hormones are used in dermatology, urology, and virology.

Classification of corticosteroid ointments

Experts divide corticosteroid ointments into four types:

Weak - containing prednisolone or hydrocortisone.
Moderate - with prednicarbate, flumethasone or fluocortolone.
Strong - containing mometasone, betamethasone and budesonide.
Very strong - the composition is based on the compound clobetasol propionate.

Combined drugs with CS additionally contain antibacterial and fungicidal components. Examples are Belosalik and Flucinar.

According to the sphere of influence, corticosteroids are divided into 2 groups:

The goal of corticosteroid therapy is to block prostaglandins, substances that trigger inflammatory mechanisms in the body. There are many prostaglandins, and not all of them are harmful to health. Modern CS act selectively only on those parts of the body that need medical attention.

In case of renal failure and potassium deficiency in the body, the use of the drugs in question is prohibited. Contraindications to the use of corticosteroid ointments also include hypothyroidism, tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and serious mental disorders.

Scope of application of corticosteroid ointments

The property of corticosteroids to quickly relieve swelling, itching and inflammation is widely used in the treatment of skin diseases.

Dermatologists know all the indications for the use of corticosteroid ointments associated with damage to the epidermis:

Psoriasis.
Allergy.
Hives.
Vitiligo.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (corticosteroid ointment may be used on the lips).
Ringworm, including pink Zhiber and.

Corticosteroids are used to treat esophagitis and gastritis. In this case, the drugs eliminate heartburn and pain when swallowing food. They also help restore damaged mucous tissue. The CS group is actively used in dental practice and in the treatment of paresis (facial nerve paralysis).

Urologists prescribe corticosteroid ointments for men for phimosis. This disease leads to an abnormal narrowing of the foreskin, which causes difficulty in exposing the glans penis and performing hygienic measures. The use of CS allows patients to be successfully treated without surgery.

Corticosteroid ointments are also used in ophthalmology for eyes affected by iritis, conjunctivitis, and iridocyclitis. But the indications do not end there, since artificial hormones are useful for certain blood diseases and oncopathologies, arthritis, pneumonia, sinusitis, neurological disorders, bronchial asthma and viral infections.

Children with dermatitis are very rarely treated with corticosteroids. Up to 5 years of age, children are prescribed Dermatol, a drug in which the concentration of hydrocortisone does not exceed 1%. For patients over 5 years of age, a stronger corticosteroid, such as Mometasone, is prescribed.

It is undesirable to use corticosteroid ointments during pregnancy, as they worsen the woman’s immunity and provoke diseases of the hematopoietic system in the fetus. Expectant mothers are prescribed such medications extremely rarely.

Corticosteroid ointments: principle of action

The active components of corticosteroid ointments are quickly absorbed by the skin. Together with auxiliary substances, they are introduced into the structure of the epidermis and act on the affected areas.

Synthesized hormones enter the systemic circulation in small concentrations and are almost completely excreted in the urine after processing by the liver and kidneys. The drugs accelerate the process of skin regeneration.

They are applied to the skin once a day without applying an occlusive dressing. Otherwise, the medicinal substances will be absorbed into the bloodstream, which is undesirable for the patient. The doctor determines the duration of therapy individually, taking into account the complexity of the pathology.

It is necessary to understand that the ointment only alleviates the symptoms of the disease. Actions that corticosteroid ointment does not have are antihistamine and anti-infective. The external application does not affect the source of the disease. It only temporarily eliminates the inflammatory process. The root cause should be eliminated with other medications.

The main factors that influence the rate of penetration of ointment components into the skin are the total thickness of the epidermis, its level of humidity and temperature. The descending sequence of penetration is determined by experts in the following order:

Mucous tissues.
Scrotum.
The area of skin under the mammary glands.
Armpits.
Crotch folds.
Eyelids.
The entire surface of the face.
Back.
Breast.
Legs and shins.
Hands and forearms.
Back of hands and feet.
Nail plates.

The best corticosteroid ointments: review with prices

Doctors select the appropriate corticosteroid ointment for a particular patient from the list:

Advantan.
Belogent.
Celestoderm B.
Beloderm.
Hydrocortisone.
Lokoid.
Lorinden C.
Prednisolone ointment.

Advantan

The active component of the drug is methylprednisolone. There are no side effects even with long-term use.

Advantan suppresses the allergic reaction, reduces swelling, relieves itching and irritation, and stops the inflammatory process. The price of corticosteroid ointment varies from 600 to 1200 rubles.

Belogent

The ointment contains betamethasone and gentamicin. The substances work to relieve itching and inflammation and provide an antiproliferative effect.

Belogent is inexpensive, 200 - 400 rubles. Side effects are rare (burning, rash, redness of the treated area).

Celestoderm B

It also contains betamethasone and, like Belogent, relieves itching and inflammation.

Celestoderm B regulates skin cell division (proliferation), constricts blood vessels and has an antihistamine effect. Side effects are rare. The cost of ointment with corticosteroids is 250 – 350 rubles.

Beloderm

Corticosteroid ointment with betamethasone has antiproliferative and antiallergic properties.

Relieves uncomfortable symptoms of skin diseases. Constricts blood vessels. Beloderm is prescribed to children from 6 years of age. The price of the ointment is 250 rubles. There are practically no side effects.

Hydrocortisone

Ointment with cortisone eliminates the inflammatory process.

Costs on average 100 rubles. Side effects appear only against the background of vaccination, viral and fungal diseases.

Lokoid

The active component of corticosteroid ointment, hydrocortisone, quickly relieves inflammation, relieves itching and swelling.

Lokoid is on sale at a price of 350 rubles. A side effect is an increase in cortisol levels in the blood.

Lorinden C

The external preparation contains two active ingredients - flumethasone and clioquinol.

Their task is to quickly remove inflammation and neutralize harmful pathogens in the form of bacterial and fungal strains. In case of intolerance to the components, side effects are manifested by itching and rashes on the body. Lorinden C costs about 400 rubles.

Prednisolone ointment

The drug formula is based on prednisolone.

The substance acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, eliminates exudation and allergy symptoms. Does not cause side effects. You can buy the ointment for 100 rubles.

There are other corticosteroid ointments, the advisability of which is considered by a doctor.

These are Nasonex against allergic rhinitis, Flucinar and Sinaflan for adolescents, Fluorocort, Fucidin and Fucidin G. Children from 2 years of age are prescribed Fucidin G.

Side effect information

With prolonged and improper use of corticosteroid ointments, the patient may experience serious side effects and develop complications. The most harmless of them are stretch marks on the body.

More dangerous will be:

Osteoporosis.
Psycho-emotional disorders.
Improper functioning of the adrenal glands.
Hypertension.
Diabetes.
Edema.
Hyperhidrosis.