Dermatop (Prednicarbate Topical) - Description and Clinical Pharmacology

FOR DERMATOLOGIC USE ONLY.
NOT FOR USE IN EYES.

DESCRIPTION

DERMATOP^® Ointment (prednicarbate ointment) 0.1% contains the non-halogenated prednisolone derivative prednicarbate. The topical corticosteroids constitute a class of primarily synthetic steroids used topically as anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic agents. Each gram of DERMATOP Ointment 0.1% contains 1.0mg of prednicarbate in a base consisting of white petrolatum, octyldodecanol, glyceryl oleate, propylene glycol, citric acid, and propyl gallate.

Prednicarbate has the empirical formula C₂₇H₃₆O₈ and a molecular weight of 488.58. The CAS Registry Number is 73771-04-7. The chemical structure is:

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Like other topical corticosteroids, prednicarbate has anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic and vasoconstrictive properties. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A₂ inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A₂.

Pharmacokinetics

The extent of percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids is determined by many factors, including the vehicle and the integrity of the epidermal barrier. Occlusive dressings with hydrocortisone for up to 24 hours have not been demonstrated to increase penetration; however, occlusion of hydrocortisone for 96 hours markedly enhances penetration. Topical corticosteroids can be absorbed from normal intact skin while inflammation and/or other disease processes in the skin increase percutaneous absorption.

Studies performed with DERMATOP Ointment (prednicarbate ointment) 0.1% indicate that it is in the medium range of potency as compared with other topical corticosteroids.