Pure corticosteroid ointments can be used. Corticosteroids: inhalation, topical preparations, list of drops, ointments, tablets

Corticosteroids belong to a subclass of steroid hormone drugs. In a healthy body, these hormones are produced by the adrenal glands. Each patient receiving hormonal therapy is recommended to familiarize themselves in detail with what corticosteroids are, what drugs they are presented in, how they differ and how they act on the body. Particular attention should be paid to the sections on contraindications and side effects.

Indications for use

Corticosteroids have a wide range of uses. So, 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 acceptable 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 with dysfunction of the adrenal glands);
myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness in the presence of autosomal pathologies);
violations of mineral metabolism;
adynamia.

Classification

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

Mineralocorticosteroids include aldosterone, which retains sodium ions, 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, block the regeneration process.

Long-term use of corticosteroids is impossible. Of the minuses of these drugs, suppression of the function of natural hormones can be distinguished, 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 form

Corticosteroids are available in the form of tablets, capsules with prolonged or instant action, solutions in ampoules, ointments, creams, 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, Rinocort, Flixotide, Flixonase, Triamcinolone, Fluticasone, Azmacort, Nazacort.
Topical preparations for topical use: Prednisolone ointment, Hydrocortisone, Locoid, Corteid, 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 group of corticosteroids are oral tablets and capsules. These include:

Prednisolone - has powerful anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects. Contraindications: gastric ulcer, intestinal pathology, vaccination, hypertension, tendency to form blood clots in the vessels. Dosage: once a day 5-60 mg / day, but not more than 200 mg. Children's dosage is 0.14-0.2 mg / kg of body weight in 3-4 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 responses. Compared to Hydrocortisone, it has a greater anti-inflammatory effect. Dosage: 0.25–8 mg for adults, 17–250 mcg/kg of body weight for children. Cancellation of treatment occurs gradually.
Kenakort - stabilizes cell membranes, relieves the 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: 100 mcg three times/week to 200 mcg/day. Cancellation is gradual.
Metipred - contains methylprednisolone. Contraindications: individual intolerance. The drug is used with caution during pregnancy, complex infections, psychosis, 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 of body weight.
Berlikort - tablets based on triamcinolone, are contraindicated in ulcers, osteoporosis, psychosis, mycosis, tuberculosis, poliomyelitis, glaucoma. Dosage: 0.024-0.04 g/day once a day after breakfast.
Florinef contains fludrocortisone. Contraindications: psychosis, herpes, amebiasis, systemic mycosis, the period before and after vaccination. Dosage: 0.1 mg three times a week to 0.2 mg/day. The dose is reduced in hypertension.
Urbazone is an oral powder containing methylprednisolone. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, herpes, chickenpox, mental disorders, poliomyelitis, glaucoma. Dosage: 30 mg/kg body weight.

Topical corticosteroids

Topical preparations are intended for topical application. Corticosteroid preparations 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 with 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 in the conjunctival sac.
Lokoid - contains hydrocortisone 17-butyrate. Contraindications: post-vaccination period, dermatitis, fungal and viral skin lesions. Dosage: a thin layer 1-3 times / day, with improvement, they switch to applying the ointment 2-3 times / week.
Lorinden A and C are ointments containing flumethasone pivalate and salicylic acid (A) or flumethasone pivalate and clioquinol (C). They are used to treat acute and chronic allergic dermatoses. Contraindicated in childhood, pregnancy, viral skin lesions. They are used 2-3 times / day, can be applied under an occlusive dressing.
Sinaflan is an antiallergic ointment, its active substance is fluocinolone acetonide. It is used with caution during puberty, is contraindicated in diaper rash, pyoderma, blastomycosis, hemangioma, during lactation. The product is applied to the skin 2-4 times / day for a course of 5-25 days.
Flucinar - anti-inflammatory gel or ointment against psoriasis. Contraindicated in pregnancy, anogenital itching. Apply 1-3 times / day. It is inexpensive.

Inhaled corticosteroids

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

Becotide is a metered dose aerosol containing beclomethasone dipropionate that treats bronchial asthma. Contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the ingredients. It is prescribed at a dose of 200-600 mcg / day in divided doses, if asthma is severe, the dose is doubled. Children from 4 years of age are prescribed 400 mcg / day.
Aldecin (Aldecim) is a spray based on beclomethasone dipropionate. Contraindicated in tuberculosis, hemorrhagic diathesis, frequent nosebleeds. 1-2 inhalations are shown in each nostril 4 times / day, for children - twice / day.
Beconase - a spray that includes beclomethasone, helps with chronic rhinitis and pharyngitis. Dosage: 2 sprays twice/day or 1 spray 3-4 times/day.
Ingacort is an aerosol based on flunisolide. Shown at 1 mg / day (2 injections into the nostrils twice / day) for a course of 4-6 weeks. Prohibited in case of allergy to components.
Sintaris is a remedy 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. Dosage: 1 mg/day once.
Nazacort is a nasal spray containing the active ingredient triamcinolone. Indicated for the treatment and prevention of seasonal and allergic rhinitis. Contraindications: age up to 6 years, pregnancy, hepatitis C. Dosage: 220 mcg / day (2 injections) once, children 6–12 years old - half as much.

For injection

For intravenous, subcutaneous and intramuscular administration, injectable corticosteroids are indicated. Popular ones include:

Prednisolone - used in emergency therapy. Contraindicated in children during the period of growth and with allergies to the components of the composition. It is administered intravenously or intramuscularly at a dose of 100–200 mg in a course of 3–16 days. Long-term therapy is canceled gradually.
Hydrocortisone - suspension for injection, 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 intraarticular administration. Contraindicated in acute psychosis, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus. Dosage for exacerbations is prescribed individually. If the dose is exceeded, the patient may swell.
Flosteron - a suspension containing betamethasone disodium phosphate and betamethasone dipropionate, is prescribed for systemic or intra-articular use. Contraindicated in gastric ulcer, thrombophlebitis, history of arthroplasty, lactation. Dose: 0.5-2 ml per 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 joint damage. Dose: 4-48 mg / day, children - 0.18 mg / kg body weight / day in three divided doses.

How to apply

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

Methylprednisolone is administered intravenously at 40-60 mg every 6 hours, Prednisolone - 30-40 mg once / day. Glucocorticoids begin to act 6 hours after ingestion, it is optimal to halve their dose every 3-5 days. long-acting drugs are not used to treat bronchial asthma; inhalation agents are used instead (the course lasts up to several months). After using aerosols and throat sprays, you should rinse your mouth to prevent the appearance of candidiasis.
For allergies, intravenous administration of drugs is indicated, which begin to act after 2-8 hours. For psoriasis, topical (local) remedies are used in the format of creams and ointments. Systemic hormonal drugs are contraindicated in this case, because they can aggravate the course of the disease. Topical corticosteroid hormones are used twice a day, at night it is allowed to apply them under an occlusive dressing. The area of the whole body should not account for more than 30 g of the drug, otherwise intoxication is inevitable.
Long-term use of glucocorticoids is accompanied by a gradual withdrawal due to addiction. If drugs are stopped quickly or suddenly, adrenal insufficiency may develop. With treatment for 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 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 get the maximum benefit from corticosteroid treatment, you need to follow the rules for their use. Some recommendations for patients:

The break between taking pills should be at least 8 hours - such an interval between releases into the blood is equal to natural mechanisms.
Medicines are best taken with food.
Enrich the menu for the duration of treatment with proteins, reduce the amount of carbohydrates and salt.
Take additional calcium supplements and B vitamins to avoid osteoporosis.
Drink at least 1.5 liters of pure water per day, avoid alcohol.
Do not increase or decrease the dosage of injections and tablets. Overdose is dangerous manifestation of side effects.
The optimal duration of therapy is 5-7 days, the maximum is 3 months.

Treatment Methods

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

Intensive - drugs are administered intravenously, indicated for extremely severe conditions.
Limiting - pills are used, people with chronic forms of diseases are treated.
Alternating - shows a sparing regimen of medication, intermittent.
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 according to exceptional indications - if these are vital situations. So, with broncho-obstructive syndrome, 2-4 mg / kg of prednisolone can be administered intravenously, repeating the procedure every 2-4 hours with a dose reduction of 20-50% each time. With hormonal dependence (bronchial asthma), the child is transferred to maintenance therapy with Prednisolone. If the baby often suffers from relapses of asthma, then he is shown taking Beclomethasone inhalations.

Topical creams, ointments, gels should be used with caution in pediatric practice, because they can inhibit growth, cause Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome, and disrupt the endocrine glands. Ointments and creams should be applied on a minimal area and in a limited course. Children of the first year of life can apply ointments with only 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 cross the placental barrier and may affect fetal pressure. The intake of synthetic hormones into the blood of a pregnant woman imitates a stress signal for a developing child, so the fetus boosts the use of reserves. Drugs suppress the immune system, new generation drugs are not deactivated by placental enzymes.

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

the 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 the manifestation of side effects. High doses and the use of active drugs are accompanied by negative reactions:

the appearance of edema;
increase in 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;
increase in the level of prostaglandins;
bacterial and fungal infections against the background of secondary immunodeficiency;
glaucoma, cataract;
acne;
hypokalemia
depression, mood lability;
Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome (deposition of fat on the face, neck, chest, abdomen, muscle atrophy 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 and renal failure, diabetes mellitus, glaucoma serve as a reason for the prohibition of mineralocorticoids. General contraindications for corticosteroids are:

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

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

diabetes;
stomach ulcer and 12 duodenal ulcer;
ulcerative colitis;
cirrhosis of the liver;
high blood pressure;
vascular heart failure in the stage of decompensation;
tendency to thrombosis;
tuberculosis.

drug interaction

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

antacids reduce the absorption of glucocorticoids taken orally;
Difenin, Carbamazepine, Diphenhydramine, barbiturates, Rifampicin, Hexamidin increase the rate of glucocorticoid metabolism in the liver, and Isoniazid and Erythromycin inhibit it;
glucocorticoids contribute to the excretion of salicylates, Digitoxin, Butadion, Penicillin, Chloramphenicol, barbiturates, Difenin, Isoniazid from the body;
the joint use of glucocorticoids with Isoniazid can cause a mental disorder, with Reserpine - depression;
co-administration of tricyclic antidepressants with corticosteroids increases the risk of increased intraocular pressure;
long-term use of glucocorticoids increases the effect of taking adrenomimetics;
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 administration of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids increases hypernatremia and hypokalemia;
in the presence of 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 with the combined use of Retinol;
simultaneous administration of hormones with Methandrostenolone, Chingamine, Azathioprine increases the risk of developing cataracts;
glucocorticoids reduce the effect of Cyclophosphamide, the effectiveness of sugar-reducing drugs, the antiviral effect of Idoxuridine;
estrogens increase the effect of taking glucocorticoids;
if glucocorticoids are combined with iron and androgen therapy, 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 action is reduced;
corticosteroids with alcohol increase the risk of peptic ulcer disease.

Price

On sale there are a variety of drugs from the group of corticosteroids. Their cost depends on the form of release, the price policy of the seller. In Moscow, you can buy medicines or order them at the following prices:

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

Natural corticosteroids control the following processes in the body:

mineral metabolism (retain sodium ions and excrete 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.

Ask your question to a neurologist for free

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

They are able to eliminate the symptoms of the inflammatory process(anesthetize, relieve swelling and redness, lower the temperature locally). Synthetic molecules of corticosteroids are built into the cycle of metabolic reactions natural for 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 drugs are not effective.

Formulations of synthetic corticosteroids

Synthetic corticosteroids have the following forms of release:

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 preparations.

prednisolone tablets

They have a powerful anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect. The drug is contraindicated in ulcerative pathology of the stomach and intestines, during the vaccination period, with hypertension and a tendency to form blood clots in the vessels.

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

Celeston

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

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

Kenacort tablets

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

50 tablets of 10 mg cost about 200 rubles.

Betamethasone dipropionate is present as an active ingredient in the composition. Injections with the drug are effective in the following pathologies: a state of shock of various nature, with cerebral edema, with 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 medication costs about 200 rubles.

Kenalog

The active ingredient of the drug -. The drug compares favorably with a gentle effect on the body, no effect on the pituitary gland and mineral metabolism in the body.

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

The active ingredient of the drug is methylprednisolone. Contraindicated in fungal infections and individual intolerance.

Topical corticosteroids for external use

Topical corticosteroids are classified as follows:

weak activity ("", "Lokoid", "Korteid");
moderately active ("Afloderm", "Esperson", "Laticort");
highly active ("Kuterid", "Kutiveit", "Elokom");
very highly active ("Dermovate", "Clobetasol").

The most used corticosteroid ointments

Locoid

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

30 grams of the drug have a cost of 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 for a tube starts from 330 rubles.

Fluorocort - ointment based on triamcinolone

It perfectly relieves itching, swelling and redness.

The cost of the tuba is about 250 rudders.

Fucidin G

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

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

The nuances of the use of topical agents

The choice of means depends on the severity, localization and depth of the process. It must be administered 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 the removal of symptoms, the transition to a remedy without hormones is carried out.

Inhaled forms of corticosteroids

Corticosteroids in the form of solutions for inhalation are effective reduce membrane permeability, limit the release of proteolytic enzymes outside the lysosomes. A high concentration of the substance is created locally in the walls of the bronchial action, which minimizes the systemic effect.

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

Beclamitosone (Aldecim, Bekotid, Beclocort)

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

A bottle of 200 mcg of Beclamitasone costs 300 - 400 rubles.

Beclamitasone-nasal, Baconase

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

A bottle of Baconase costs about 300 rubles.

Flunizalid (Ingacort)

Effective in 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 tuberculosis.

Main side effects of corticosteroids

Long-term use of corticosteroids side effects develop In most cases.

Preparations:

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

Special cases of the use of corticosteroids

Childhood

Topical corticosteroids administered 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 old 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 the application outweighs the possible risks to the fetus.

These are the following situations:

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

Corticosteroids with local short-term use practically do not penetrate into breast milk.

If the doses of drugs are high, then this can cause a violation of the development of the child and inhibition of the hormonal system.

With bronchial asthma

Corticosteroids are effective in bronchial asthma. They relieve the symptoms of inflammation, but do not dilate the bronchi. These medicines are used during attacks when other means are not effective. After stopping the attack, the dose of the active component is reduced gradually (2 times every 4 days). In bronchial asthma, corticosteroids are indicated in the form for inhalation. These are: Becloson Eco, Budesonide Forte, Pulmicort, Pulmicort Turvuhaler, Fluticonazole Propionate.

For allergies

In complex forms of allergy, corticosteroids are effective, they are prescribed systemically and locally. List of drugs: "Betamethasone", "Prednisolone", "", as well as their analogues.

With hay fever and allergic rhinitis, intranasal aerosols (Flukatisone, Baconase, Propionate) help.

With psoriasis

Sometimes, in the treatment of an allergic reaction of the body to any irritants, specialists use corticosteroid drugs, but not all patients know what it is.

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

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

The essence of drugs is important

Knowing what it is - corticosteroids, it is important to understand the principle of their action. These are steroid hormones that are naturally produced by the adrenal cortex. Their analogues are preparations with corticosteroids of synthetic origin, which are designed to compensate for the lack of hormones in the human body if necessary.

Main functions:

removal of inflammation;
control over kidney function;
adjustment of hormonal balance;
normalization of metabolic processes;
decrease in the body's susceptibility 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, experts 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 disappears after the 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. With the suppression of the focus of inflammation and the removal of swelling of the tissues, it is possible to weigh everything correctly and determine the correct course of further therapy.

Often, you may encounter an unjustified fear of the patient to take hormonal drugs, but it should be understood that nothing terrible can happen if drugs are administered as prescribed by a doctor, in particular, 5 times within 10 days. However, at the same time, 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, resulting in problems with self-regulation of the body.

Features of synthetic hormones

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

Hormonal agents are not able to neutralize the main cause of the pathology and the mechanism of its development. They only stop the 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 injury;
tumor pathologies of the blood;
and dermatitis;
dysfunction of the immune system;
viral diseases (hepatitis, mononucleosis);
some types of malignant tumors;
violation of skin pigmentation against the background of immunity failure;
severe allergic symptoms (, asthma attack, anaphylactic shock);
eye diseases of allergic and non-infectious properties (conjunctivitis, blepharitis).

Like other drugs, 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 Quincke's edema or anaphylactic shock, then hormonal drugs are used, regardless of contraindications.

But when prescribing long-term therapy, they should definitely be taken into account:

osteoporosis;
epileptic seizures;
arterial hypertension;
increased blood sugar;
severe mental disorders;
acute heart failure;
chronic pathologies of the digestive system (ulcer).

Despite the fact that hormones can effectively eliminate inflammation in the body in many diseases, they can also provoke many side effects. This is especially true with long-term high-dose therapy. Common side effects:

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

Release forms for effective treatment

Preparations with synthetic corticosteroids are available in several main forms:

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

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

Group name	Name of the drug	Peculiarities
Corticosteroid tablets	Metipred	The active ingredient is methylprednisolone. It has a fast 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 limitations: pregnancy, acute form of psychosis, complex infections, disruption of the endocrine system
	Celeston	The active ingredient of the drug is betamethasone. The dosage is prescribed by the doctor, based on the patient's condition. It is unacceptable to use the drug for severe infections, glaucoma, hypertension, poliomyelitis, after myocardial infarction
	Prednisolone	It has a strong anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect. It is unacceptable to use the drug in acute renal failure, stomach ulcers, tuberculosis, pregnancy. May provoke side effects in the form of insomnia, edema, immunodeficiency. The tool 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 a minimal negative effect on the digestive system and psyche.
Solutions for injections	Flosteron	Thanks to its constituent betanidazole, it has a long-lasting effect. Contraindicated in glaucoma, tuberculosis, complex infections, viral diseases
	Kenalog	Compared with other similar means, 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. Unacceptable for use in psychosis, nephritis, severe hypertension, tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus
	Diprospan	The drug is recommended for use in cerebral edema, acute adrenal insufficiency and a state of shock of various nature. The active ingredient is betamethasone dipropionate
External use	Elokom	It is used to relieve the negative symptoms of inflammation and annoying itching. The active substance is mometasone furoate. Contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to components
	Flucourt	The drug is indicated for children's and atopic eczema, dermatitis of various properties, lichen. Contraindicated in pregnancy, during breastfeeding, under the age of 1 year, with individual sensitivity
		Used to relieve inflammation, swelling and eliminate itching. The active substance is hydrocortisone acetate. It is unacceptable to 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. The active ingredient is beclomethasone
	Aldecin	It is indicated for bronchial asthma of various forms of 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 unpleasant symptoms of allergies in the form of rhinitis. Application is possible from the age of six. Limitation is tuberculosis, infections of the nasal cavity, cataracts, glaucoma, nosebleeds

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

Varieties of medicines

Depending on the hormones that make up the synthetic corticosteroids are divided into the following varieties:

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

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

Fluorinated 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 (Flumethasone, Betamethasone);
Fluorine Free. They have a gentle effect, so the likelihood of side effects 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).

Appointments for special patient groups

Children

Therapy of children with the use of systemic corticosteroids is prescribed for absolute indications. In broncho-obstructive syndrome, when the situation threatens the life of the child, it is recommended to administer Prednisolone intravenously. The dosage of the drug is calculated based on individual characteristics. The procedure is repeated after 3-4 hours until the condition improves. Then the drug is canceled.

In the case of a hormonal dependence of a child in the treatment of bronchial asthma, after the administration of the drug intravenously, it is impossible to radically interrupt the treatment and therefore it is gradually transferred to a moderate dosage of the drug. In the case of regular attacks of the disease, it is recommended to use Beclamethasone dipropionate in the form of inhalations. Dosage and course of treatment is prescribed individually. When the situation improves, the child should be transferred 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 action of drugs, resulting in an increased risk of developmental and growth retardation, and possible disruption of the endocrine glands.

For children under the age of 1 year, the use of Prednicarbate (Dermatol) is allowed, up to 5 years - Hydrocortisone 17-butyrate. From the age of two, the use of Mometasone ointment is allowed, but it should be borne in mind that the duration of action is 24 hours.

The choice of corticosteroids for the treatment of a child should be carried out purely by a doctor, since any self-medication can lead to serious consequences.

pregnant

During pregnancy, even short-term use of corticosteroids can adversely affect the health of the child. 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 to reduce the immunity of a pregnant woman, therefore, susceptibility to viruses and infections increases, which negatively affects the fetus.

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

Safe use

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

strictly follow the instructions of the doctor;
avoid getting drugs in the eyes;
do not exceed the required dosage;
Before starting treatment, read the instructions and pay attention to contraindications.

In the case of prolonged use of hormones, treatment cannot be abruptly stopped. The body must be gradually rebuilt to a more moderate dosage. This is due to the fact that the drugs are able to suppress the function of the adrenal cortex and therefore, with a sudden withdrawal, adrenal insufficiency may occur.

Corticosteroids are strong and effective drugs, but their misuse can be detrimental to health and delay the imprint for several years to come. Therefore, the use of tablets, ointments, creams and other drugs in this category should be carried out by a purely attending physician, taking into account the characteristics of the patient.

There is a rather extensive 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 material metabolism.

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 tissues.

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

Corticosteroid ointments can be divided into several varieties:

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

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

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

How to apply

Any drug of corticosteroid origin should be used only for medical purposes. 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 shown. The duration of corticosteroid therapy depends on the extent of the disease.

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

Popular drugs

Corticosteroid preparations in the form of an ointment or cream have antipruritic, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects. Different dermatosis forms are treated with hormonal-based drugs with different strengths of action.

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

The main active ingredient of the drug is methylprednisolone. Advantan helps to 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 anti-allergic effects.

After application, it quickly acts on the skin and reduces pathological symptoms. Gentamicin performs the functions of a bactericidal component capable of destroying most pathogenic microorganisms, including strains. Side effects occur very rarely, manifested by acne, burning or redness.

Beloderm, Celestoderm B

Instructions, price, reviews: , Celestoderm

The main active ingredient of the cream is betamethasone. The drug has antiallergic, vasoconstrictive, 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 in patients older than 6 months is allowed. Pregnant women can use this drug only in short courses and not more than once a day.

Hydrocortisone

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

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

Able to quickly provide antipruritic, anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects. At observance of dosages does not cause oppression of adrenal activity.

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

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

Flumethasone is a glucocorticosteroid with vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and anti-allergic, anti-edematous action. 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 ingredient of Sinaflan and its analogue Flucinar is fluocinolone. These drugs have a pronounced anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect.

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

Fluorocort

The active active ingredient of the ointment is triamcinolone. Accumulating in the skin, this glucocorticosteroid drug reduces the manifestations of exudation and itching, provides anti-edematous and anti-allergic effects. The daily norm of the drug is 15 g, the course of therapy is not more than 10 days.

Fucidin G

The main active components of Fucidin G ointment are hydrocortisone and fusidic acid, which is an antibiotic substance. Combined glucocorticosteroid drug with increased anti-inflammatory and antipruritic action. Allowed in pediatrics from 2 years. The duration of treatment is not more than 14 days. Do not confuse with regular Fucidin.

Elokom

Corticosteroid ointment with the active ingredient mometasone. It has a similar effect 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

Preparations of corticosteroid origin can cause a lot of different adverse reactions. The use of drugs of a weak and moderate group contributes to less severity and rare manifestations 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 glucocorticosteroids with high activity, then the following manifestations may occur:

Increased blood pressure;
weight gain;
menstrual disorders;
Increased swelling;
Increase in blood sugar, up to steroid diabetes;
Bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract, the formation or exacerbation of gastric ulcers;
Osteoporosis;
Increased rate of thrombus formation;
Hyper sweating;
Disorders of a neurological nature;
Skin atrophy;
Increased hair growth in the face;
bone necrosis;
Increased susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infectious processes against the background of secondary immunodeficiency;
The occurrence of cataracts, glaucoma;
Acne rashes;
Slow recovery of damaged tissues;
Inhibition of adrenal activity;
Tendency to depression, mood swings.

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

Separate areas of fat are formed, for example, on the neck (bull neck), abdomen, chest or face (moon face);
Muscle tissue atrophy occurs;
Stretch marks and bruises 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 regimen and caloric content of the diet, to control weight changes.

Features of use in children

For pediatric patients, corticosteroid ointments or creams are prescribed only in short courses and only in small areas. The fact is that in children, sensitivity to adverse reactions of such drugs is most pronounced than in adults. Therefore, up to a year in children's treatment, only drugs of the latest generation or drugs with 1% hydrocortisone are used, at 1-5 years, drugs of moderate strength are used.

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

For medical purposes, from the age of 2, you can use Metazon prolonged action ointment, which is applied to the affected areas 1 p. per day. Against atopic dermatitis in children, Advantan is often used, which 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 this period is allowed only for a short course on a small area and only in cases where the expected therapeutic effect is higher than the risk of use.

According to studies, 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 violations of the course of pregnancy or an increase in the risk of malformations.

6 comments

Good afternoon!
8 months ago, a reddish spot appeared on the temple. Now there is a spot on the forehead and on the cheeks with a diameter of 5-10 mm, there is an itch. I was treated by a dermatologist, having previously passed all possible tests, everything is in order, this is neither a fungus nor an infection. At first, Fucidin G cream and Claritin + Lactofiltrum were prescribed for 2 weeks, it helped a little, the spots practically disappeared, but then they reappeared in the same places. The dermatologist prescribed Bepanten and Belogent, which also did not help much. I noticed that the exacerbation appears after a stressful situation, fatigue, alcohol, you can’t sweat or be in the sauna. Since December 2016, the dermatologist, spreading her arms, sent her to the therapist, also passed all possible tests, they didn’t find anything, the therapist also shrugged…
What can you advise? One is familiar with being treated against fungal spots on the body with IRUNIN tablets, SEBOSOL Shampoo, Mycospor and Thermicon Spray. It helps him.
Thank you!

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

Hello, please tell me how you can smear diathesis in a child of 2 years old, speaking on the cheeks. She constantly scratches these sores and they do not go away for a long time

Hello,

The first thing to do is adjust your diet. Moms always accept this fact with hostility, but nothing will help without it. 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 improvement, but new rashes still appear. Help 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! An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor.

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

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

Classification of corticosteroid ointments

Specialists 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.

With 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 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 indications for the use of corticosteroid ointments associated with epidermal lesions:

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

Corticosteroids treat esophagitis and gastritis. In this case, the drugs eliminate heartburn and pain when swallowing food. They also contribute to the restoration of the affected mucosal tissue. The KS group is actively used in dental practice and in the treatment of paresis (facial paralysis).

Urologists prescribe corticosteroid ointments for men with phimosis. This disease leads to an abnormal narrowing of the foreskin, which makes it difficult to expose the glans penis and perform hygiene 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, because artificial hormones are useful for certain blood diseases and oncopathologies, arthritis, pneumonia, sinusitis, neurological disorders, bronchial asthma and viral infections.

Children with dermatitis with corticosteroids are very rarely treated. Up to 5 years, babies are prescribed Dermatol - a drug in which the concentration of hydrocortisone does not exceed 1%. Patients older than 5 years are prescribed a stronger corticosteroid, such as mometasone.

During pregnancy, corticosteroid ointments are undesirable to use, since they worsen the woman's immunity and provoke diseases of the hematopoietic system in the fetus. Expectant mothers such drugs are prescribed extremely rarely.

Corticosteroid ointments: the principle of exposure

The active ingredients 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. Preparations accelerate the process of skin regeneration.

They are applied to the skin 1 time per day without applying an occlusive dressing. Otherwise, medicinal substances will be absorbed by 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 must be understood that the ointment only alleviates the symptoms of the disease. Actions that corticosteroid ointment does not have are antihistamine and anti-infective. The external agent does not affect the source of the disease. It only temporarily eliminates the inflammatory process. The root cause should be eliminated with other medicines.

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

Mucous tissues.
Scrotum.
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.
The back of the hands and feet.
Nail plates.

The best corticosteroid ointments: an overview with prices

The choice of a corticosteroid ointment suitable for a particular patient is carried out by doctors from the list:

Advantan.
Belogent.
Celestoderm b.
Beloderm.
Hydrocortisone.
Locoid.
Lorinden C.
Prednisolone ointment.

Advantan

The active ingredient of the drug is methylprednisolone. There are no side effects even with prolonged use.

Advantan suppresses an 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. 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, removes 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 an 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 for children from the age of 6. The price of the ointment is 250 rubles. There are practically no side effects.

Hydrocortisone

Ointment with cortisone eliminates the inflammatory process.

It costs an average of 100 rubles. Side effects appear only against the background of vaccination, viral and fungal diseases.

Locoid

The active component of the corticosteroid ointment, hydrocortisone, quickly stops inflammation, removes itching and swelling.

Lokoid is for sale at a price of 350 rubles. A side effect is an increase in the level of cortisol 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. With intolerance to the components, side effects are manifested by itching and rashes on the body. Lorinden C costs about 400 rubles.

Prednisolone ointment

The formula of the drug is based on prednisolone.

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

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

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

Information about side effects

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 are:

Osteoporosis.
Psycho-emotional disorders.
Incorrect work of the adrenal glands.
Hypertension.
Diabetes.
Edema.
Hyperhidrosis.