How do you determine the potency of a topical steroid?

Potency. The preferred way to determine topical steroid potency is the vasoconstrictor assay, which classifies steroids based on the extent to which the agent causes cutaneous vasoconstriction (“blanching effect”) in normal, healthy persons.

What factors affect the potency of topical corticosteroids?

The potency of a topical corticosteroid depends on the formulation, the specific molecule type, level of skin absorption, and amount that reaches the target cell. Potency is also increased when a formulation is used under occlusive dressing or in intertriginous areas.

What is a high potency topical steroid?

The highest potency topical steroids include: Temovate (clobetasol propionate) 0.05% ointment. Ultravate (halobetasol propionate) 0.05% cream, ointment, or lotion. Psorcon (diflorasone diacetate) 0.05% ointment. Diprolene (betamethasone dipropionate) 0.25% ointment or gel.

Which topical corticosteroid has the highest potency?

The highest potency topical steroids include:

  • Temovate (clobetasol propionate) 0.05% ointment.
  • Ultravate (halobetasol propionate) 0.05% cream, ointment, or lotion.
  • Psorcon (diflorasone diacetate) 0.05% ointment.
  • Diprolene (betamethasone dipropionate) 0.25% ointment or gel.

What does potent steroid mean?

One way of understanding the strength of different steroid preparations is to note that ‘moderately potent’ is twice as potent as hydrocortisone 1%; ‘potent’ is 10 times more potent; and ‘very potent’ 50 times more potent. If you are not sure of the potency of a steroid preparation, ask your pharmacist.

What is steroid potency?

The potency of topical steroids is determined by the amount of vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels) they produce. It also relates to the degree to which the topical steroid inhibits inflammation, and its potential for causing side effects.

What is difference between cortisone and hydrocortisone?

Hydrocortisone and cortisone are identical short-acting corticosteroids. However, they are not the same. Cortisone is an inactive prodrug that is converted into hydrocortisone, or cortisol, in the liver. Hydrocortisone works as a topical medication whereas cortisone is not as effective as a topical treatment.

What is stronger than hydrocortisone cream?

Clobetasol is available on prescription only. It’s much stronger than other steroid creams such as hydrocortisone 1% strength. It comes as a cream, ointment, scalp treatment and shampoo.