Atcovate Lotion

SPECIFICATION

10Gm

Generics

Fluticasone Propionate

About

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. Fluticasone propionate is lipophilic and has a strong affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor. It has weak affinity for the progesterone receptor, and virtually no affinity for the mineralocorticoid, estrogen, or androgen receptors. The therapeutic potency of glucocorticoids is related to the half-life of the glucocorticoid-receptor complex. The half-life of the fluticasone propionate-glucocorticoid receptor complex is approximately 10 hours.

Indication

It is a strong and rapidly effective treatment for inflamed skin conditions such as dermatitis/eczema.

Side Effects

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) • Irritation or itching. Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people) • A feeling of burning where the ointment is applied. Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people) • If you have psoriasis you may get raised bumps with pus under the skin. This can happen during or after the treatment and is known as pustular psoriasis. • Worsening of condition • Redness • Rash or hives • Stretch marks may develop • Blood vessels under the surface of your skin may become more noticeable • Changes to the colour of your skin • Increased body hair • Skin thinning • Skin wrinkling • Skin dryness • Weight gain and rounding of the face • Obesity

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicine, especially if you are taking ritonavir and itraconazole medications.

When not to Use

It is contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components in the preparation.

Precaution

It contains the excipient imidurea which releases formaldehyde as a breakdown product. Formaldehyde may cause allergic sensitization or irritation upon contact with the skin. Cream should not be used in individuals with hypersensitivity to formaldehyde as it may prevent healing or worsen dermatitis.