alclometasone topical

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

alclometasone is a synthetic corticosteroid that exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions when applied topically. It belongs to the glucocorticoid class of drugs and acts by suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators and inhibiting the inflammatory response.

alclometasone has a broad spectrum of activity and can be used to treat various inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and allergic reactions. It has anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with these skin conditions. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Hypopigmentation 

Cushing’s syndrome 

Striae 

Secondary infection 

HPA suppression 

Skin atrophy 

Miliaria 

Dryness 

Acneform lesions 

Irritation 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There is no black box warning specifically associated with the use of alclometasone topical. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Skin infections: Topical corticosteroids may exacerbate or prolong the duration of certain skin infections, such as bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. 
• Rosacea or perioral dermatitis: The use of topical corticosteroids in these conditions may worsen the symptoms or lead to a rebound flare-up. 
• Acne vulgaris: Topical corticosteroids can worsen acne or cause acneiform eruptions. 
• Skin atrophy: alclometasone can cause skin thinning and atrophy, and caution should be exercised when using it on thin or fragile skin areas.

Caution: 

• Skin integrity: alclometasone may cause skin thinning, fragility, or delayed wound healing. Caution should be exercised when applying the medication to skin that are already compromised, such as ulcers or open wounds. 
• Contact dermatitis: Some individuals may develop an allergic contact dermatitis reaction to alclometasone or other components of the formulation.  
• Pediatric use: alclometasone should be used with caution in children, as they may be more susceptible to systemic absorption and adverse effects.  
• Interactions: It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, including over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, or topical preparations, as they may interact with alclometasone and affect its efficacy or safety. 

Comorbidities: 

• Diabetes: alclometasone may affect blood glucose levels, especially when applied to the body or for prolonged periods. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely while using alclometasone topical. 
• Hypertension: Topical corticosteroids like alclometasone can potentially increase blood pressure. Individuals with hypertension should monitor their blood pressure regularly while using alclometasone and inform their healthcare provider if any significant changes occur. 
• Osteoporosis: Prolonged use of topical corticosteroids may increase the risk of osteoporosis. Individuals with a history of osteoporosis or at increased risk should use alclometasone topical with caution and follow the recommended duration of treatment. 
• Infections: Individuals with existing skin infections or conditions that impair the immune system may have an increased risk of developing or worsening infections when using alclometasone topical.  
• Pregnancy and lactation: The use of alclometasone topical during pregnancy and lactation should be carefully considered, and the potential benefits should outweigh the risks. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: US FDA Pregnancy Category: C 

Lactation: It is unknown whether drug gets excreted into human milk.  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• Anti-inflammatory activity: alclometasone inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, by suppressing the release of arachidonic acid and interfering with the activity of phospholipase A2. This helps reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling associated with inflammatory skin conditions. 
• Immunomodulatory effects: alclometasone topical modulates immune responses by inhibiting the activation of inflammatory cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages. It decreases the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), which contribute to the inflammatory process. 
• Vasoconstriction: alclometasone constricts blood vessels in the skin, leading to reduced redness and improved symptoms of vasodilation associated with certain skin conditions. 
• Anti-pruritic activity: alclometasone helps alleviate itching by suppressing the release of pruritogenic (itch-inducing) substances and inhibiting sensory nerve endings’ responsiveness to itching stimuli. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Glucocorticoid receptor binding: alclometasone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, leading to the formation of a receptor-ligand complex. This complex then translocates into the nucleus, where it binds to specific DNA sequences called glucocorticoid response elements. This binding regulates the expression of target genes involved in various cellular processes. 
• Anti-inflammatory activity: alclometasone exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the production and release of pro-inflammatory mediators, including cytokines (such as interleukins and TNF-alpha), chemokines, and inflammatory enzymes. This inhibition helps to reduce the inflammation associated with various dermatological conditions. 
• Immunosuppressive effects: alclometasone acts as an immunosuppressant by inhibiting the function and activation of immune cells, including T cells, B cells, and macrophages. It dampens the immune response by decreasing the release of inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the proliferation of immune cells. 
• Antipruritic activity: alclometasone helps alleviate itching by reducing the release of pruritogenic substances and inhibiting sensory nerve endings’ responsiveness to itching stimuli. It helps relieve the itching associated with certain dermatological conditions.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

alclometasone, when applied topically, is absorbed through the skin. The extent of absorption depends on various factors such as the concentration of the formulation, the integrity of the skin barrier, and the surface area of application. Topical corticosteroids, including alclometasone, can have varying degrees of percutaneous absorption. 

Distribution 

After absorption, alclometasone is distributed within the skin and underlying tissues. The drug remains primarily localized at the site of application, exerting its therapeutic effects locally. Limited systemic absorption may occur, particularly if applied to large areas of the skin or under occlusive dressings. 

Metabolism 

alclometasone undergoes metabolism primarily in the skin and other tissues. It is metabolized by various enzymes, including cytochrome P450 enzymes, to inactive metabolites. Systemic metabolism of alclometasone is minimal due to its topical application. 

Elimination and excretion 

The metabolites of alclometasone are eliminated through hepatic metabolism and subsequent excretion in the feces. The drug and its metabolites are unlikely to undergo significant renal excretion. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Clean the affected area: Before applying alclometasone topical, ensure that the affected skin area is clean and dry. 
• Apply a thin layer: Take a sufficient amount of alclometasone topical and apply a thin layer to the affected skin area. Massage the medication gently into the skin until it is evenly distributed. 
• Avoid excessive use: Use alclometasone topical sparingly and only apply enough to cover the affected area. Avoid using larger amounts or applying it to a larger area than recommended by your healthcare provider. 
• Wash hands after application: After applying alclometasone topical, wash hands thoroughly to remove residues. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth with the medication. 
• Avoid occlusive dressings unless instructed: Unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider, do not cover the treated area with occlusive dressings (such as plastic wrap) as this may increase the absorption of the medication and the risk of systemic side effects. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: alclometasone topical 

Pronounced: (al-kloh-muh-TAY-zone top-ih-kal)  

Why do we use alclometasone topical? 

• Dermatitis: alclometasone topical can be used to relieve symptoms associated with different types of dermatitis, including allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and seborrheic dermatitis. It helps reduce inflammation, itching, redness, and swelling of the skin. 
• Psoriasis: alclometasone topical may be prescribed to manage symptoms of mild to moderate psoriasis. It can help alleviate redness, scaling, and itching associated with this chronic skin condition. 
• Eczema: alclometasone topical is commonly used to treat eczema, a condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It helps reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms, providing relief from itching and discomfort. 
• Skin Allergies: alclometasone topical can help alleviate symptoms of allergic skin reactions, such as allergic contact dermatitis or insect bite reactions. It helps reduce inflammation and soothes the affected skin. 
• Itchy Skin Conditions: alclometasone topical may be used to relieve itching associated with various skin conditions, including rashes, hives, and insect bites.