Micort Hc Drug Information

Topical corticosteroids are indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.

Topical corticosteroids are generally applied to the affected areas as a thin film two to four times daily depending on the severity of the condition. Occlusive dressing may be used for the management of psoriasis or recalcitrant conditions. If an infection develops, the used of occlusive dressings should be discontinued and appropriate antimicrobial therapy instituted.

The following local adverse reactions are reported infrequently with topical corticosteroids, but may occur more frequently with the use of occlusive dressing. These reactions are listed in an approximate decreasing order of occurrence: burning, itching, irritation, dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, acneiform eruptions hypopigmentation, period dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, maceration of the skin, secondary infection, skin atrophy, striae, and miliaria.

Pregnancy - Teratogenic Effects Pregnancy Category C: Corticosteroids are generally teratogenic in laboratory animals when administered systemically are relatively low dosage levels. The more potent corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic after dermal application in laboratory animals. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women on teratogenic cffects from topically applied corticosteroids.

Therefore, topical corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Drugs of this class should not be used extensively on pregnant patients, in large amounts, or for prolonged period of time.

Pediatric Use Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing 's syndrome than mature patients because of a larger skin surface to body weight ratio. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, and intracranial hypertension have been reported in children receiving topical corticosteroids. Manifestations of adrenal suppression in children include linear growth retardation, delayed weight gain, low plasma cortisol levels, and absence of response to ACTH stimulation.

Manifestations of intracranial hypertension include bulging fontanelles, headaches, and bilateral papilledema. Administration of topical corticosteroids in children should be limited to the least amount compatible with an effective therapeutic regimen. Chronic corticosteroid therapy may interfere with the growth and development of children.

Topical corticosteroids are contraindicated in those patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any of the components of the preparation.

Topically applied corticosteroids can be absorbed in sufficient amounts to produce systemic effects. ( See PRECAUTIONS )