#METAZ TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROID SKIN#

The drug delivery vehicle also contributes to the potency of the formulation. Topical corticosteroids are available in a variety of dosage forms, which allows a treatment regimen to be tailored to a patient’s individual needs. 2 Because the vasoconstrictor assay is performed in vivo, it accounts for both the intrinsic potency of the drug and the ability of the vehicle to deliver the drug to the intracellular site of action.

#METAZ TOPICAL CORTICOSTEROID SKIN#

Vasoconstriction has been correlated with clinical efficacy because corticosteroids also reduce the expression of proteins with vasodilatory effects, which leads to skin blanching. 2,4 Such an assay subjectively evaluates the degree and duration of skin blanching that occurs following topical application. These rankings, detailed in table 1, are determined using cutaneous vasoconstriction assays. Topical corticosteroids are grouped into 7 different classes based on their potency, ranging from class I (very high potency), to class VII (lowest potency). Some corticosteroids result in a more potent anti-inflammatory response than others. 2 Corticosteroids also exhibit antimitotic activity, making them useful for treating scaling dermatoses. This complex regulates gene expression by modulating the transcription of mRNA, which decreases the expression of proinflammatory mediators such as IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, and interferon alpha, resulting in reduced redness, swelling, and irritation of the skin. Corticosteroids bind to receptors in the cytoplasm to form a complex that subsequently enters the nucleus and binds to DNA. The anti-inflammatory effects of topical corticosteroids are elicited by reducing the body’s immune response. 1 Topical formulations of these agents are not without potential adverse effects (AEs), but risks vary depending on preparation and duration of therapy. Although generic formulations are widely available and account for more than 97% of spending between 20, Medicare Part D spent $2.3 billion on this class of agents. Topical corticosteroids can be expensive for patients and the health care system. 1 Choice of agent is based on indication and type of lesion, as well as the medication’s potency and application vehicle. In 2015, 10.6 million prescriptions for topical corticosteroids were processed through Medicare Part D. Topical corticosteroids are available over the counter and are prescribed for a variety of skin ailments ranging from mild and irritating to severe and debilitating.

Metaz topical corticosteroid