Indications

It is indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.

Pharmacology

Halobetasol propionate, like other topical corticosteroids, has anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. In general, the mechanism of topical corticosteroids’ anti-inflammatory effect is unknown. Corticosteroids, on the other hand, are hypothesized to work by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins known as lipocortin’s. These proteins are thought to regulate the manufacture of powerful inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes by preventing the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Phospholipase A2 releases arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids.

Dosage & Administration

A thin layer should be applied to the affected skin once or twice daily, as directed by a physician, and rub in gently and completely. Treatment beyond two consecutive weeks is not recommended, and the total dosage should not exceed 50 g/week because of the potential for the drug to suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended. Halobetasol Propionate Cream should not be used with occlusive dressings. As with other highly active corticosteroids, therapy should be discontinued when control has been achieved. If no improvement is seen within 2 weeks, reassessment of the diagnosis may be necessary.

Contraindications

Patients having a history of hypersensitivity to any of the preparation’s components should avoid using Halobetasol Propionate Cream/Ointment.

Side Effects

The following adverse effects have been reported infrequently with topical corticosteroids. These reactions include burning, itching, dryness, folliculitis acne, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, skin atrophy, secondary infections, striae, and miliaria.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Topical corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Therefore caution should be exercised when topical corticosteroids are administered to a nursing woman.

Precautions & Warnings

Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids may cause reversible hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, manifestations of cushing\’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria. Patients receiving large doses of a potent topical steroid applied to a large surface area or under an occlusive dressing should be evaluated periodically for evidence of HPA axis suppression by using the urinary-free cortisol and ACTH stimulation tests. If HPA axis suppression is noted, an attempt should be made to withdraw the drug, reduce the frequency of application, or substitute a less potent steroid.

Therapeutic Class

Other Topical corticosteroids

Storage Conditions

Keep it below 30°C. All drugs should be kept out of the reach of youngsters.

Generic

Halobetasol Propionate

Pharmaceutical Name

Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.