Pharmacological properties
When applied topically, Sterocort reduces the severity of inflammatory and allergic skin reactions, as well as reactions associated with cell hyperproliferation, and helps eliminate both objective symptoms (erythema, edema, infiltration, lichenification) and subjective complaints (itching, burning, pain).
When methylprednisolone aceponate is applied in a dose that is effective for topical use, the systemic effect is minimal in both humans and animals. When applied to large areas of skin in patients with skin diseases, the level of cortisol in the blood plasma remains within normal limits throughout the day, its circadian rhythm is not disturbed. Also, no decrease in the concentration of cortisol in the daily volume of urine was detected.
As with other corticosteroids, the mechanism of action of methylprednisolone aceponate is not fully understood. It is known that it binds directly to intracellular GCS receptors. This is especially true for the main metabolite, 6α-methylprednisolone-17-propionate, which is formed after cleavage in the skin.
The binding of the receptor-steroid complex to a specific region of the DNA molecule initiates a number of biological effects.
The mechanism of anti-inflammatory action has been established more precisely. Binding of the receptor-steroid complex leads to the induction of macrocortin synthesis. Macrocortin slows down the release of arachidonic acid and, thus, reduces the formation of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
The immunosuppressive effect of GCS can be explained by inhibition of cytokine synthesis and antimitotic effect, which is not yet well understood.
Inhibition of the synthesis of vasodilating prostaglandins or potentiation of the vasoconstrictor effect of adrenaline determines the vasoconstrictor activity of GCS.
Indication
Atopic dermatitis (endogenous eczema, neurodermatitis), contact eczema, degenerative, dyshidrotic, nummular eczema, nonspecific eczema, eczema in children.
Application
The drug is applied once a day in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin, an occlusive dressing may be used. The duration of use in normal cases should not exceed 12 weeks for adults and 4 weeks for children. Several courses of therapy may be carried out during the year.
The drug can be used to treat acute inflammatory processes and wet stages of eczema, with very oily skin, as well as with localization of processes on both smooth skin and hairy skin.
Contraindication
The use of the cream is contraindicated in cases of skin tuberculosis, manifestations of syphilis in the areas of drug application; viral infections (herpes simplex, chickenpox, shingles); manifestations of a reaction to vaccination; rosacea, perioral dermatitis, hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone aceponate or any other component of the drug.
Side effects
Hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone aceponate or any other component of the drug; tuberculous and syphilitic processes in the area of application of the drug; viral diseases (e.g. chickenpox, shingles), rosacea, perioral dermatitis, ulcers, acne, atrophic skin diseases, post-vaccination reactions in the area of application of the drug.
Special instructions
In case of skin infections caused by bacteria and/or fungi, additional appropriate antimicrobial therapy is necessary.
When using Sterocort, avoid contact with eyes, deep open wounds, or mucous membranes. If the patient has glaucoma now or in history, he should inform his doctor.
As is known, glaucoma can also develop during systemic therapy with corticosteroids (for example, after use in high doses or on a large surface for a long period, use of occlusive dressings, or application to the skin around the eyes).
When applying corticosteroids for topical use in high doses to large areas of the body or for a long period, especially under an occlusive dressing, the risk of side effects is significantly increased.
When applying Sterocort to large areas of skin (40-60% of the skin surface) or even when using occlusive dressings, no adrenal cortex dysfunction has been observed in either adults or children. However, when applying to large areas of skin, the duration of treatment should be as short as possible.
If you miss a dose of Sterocort cream, do not use an increased dose the next time you apply it.
If the initial symptoms of the skin disease reappear after completing the course of treatment, you should consult a doctor.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Currently, there are no reliable data on the use of Sterocort in pregnant women.
In general, in the first trimester of pregnancy, external use of preparations containing corticosteroids (in particular, Sterocort) should be avoided.
The risk/benefit ratio must be considered when prescribing Sterocort to pregnant women.
During breastfeeding, Sterocort ointment should not be applied to the mammary glands. Prolonged use of the drug or its application to large areas of skin should be especially avoided.
Use in pediatrics. No specific precautions described.
The ability to influence the reaction speed when driving vehicles or working with other mechanisms. Does not affect.
Interactions
Interaction with other drugs has not been described.
No risk is expected from excessive single use (application of the drug to a large area of skin) or inadvertent oral use.
Storage conditions
At a temperature not exceeding 25 °C.
