Corticosteroid topical therapy range: Fluocinolone-acetonide gel

Abstract

Since the early days of use, in the mid of twentieth century, topical corticosteroids became the basis of contemporary dermatological therapy, because of their antiinflammatory efficiency, comfort of application free from unpleasant characteristics of previous generations of dermatotherapeutics, tar or antralin. With numerous evidences about potencies of specific corticosteroid molecules for adverse effects, optimal and efficient use of topical corticosteroid is the empiric art of dermatology, based on precise diagnosis, knowledge about the pathophysiology of dermatosis and characteristics of topical medication, and good communication with patients to promote optimal use of therapy. There are numerous strategies for optimization of skin atrophy risk and suboptimal therapeutic efficacy, caused by too restrictive topical drug use. Preferences of patients with chronic dermatoses are an important factor for good adherence with therapy, generally favoring formulations that are easier for application, less occlusive and less time-consuming. In most medical systems Fluocinolon gel is topical steroid formulation continuously present from the early days of use. It is adequate for use both for glabrous and hair-bearing skin and for oral mucosa also. A long history of use, the knowledge about effiancy and adverse effects make fluocinolone gel the important part of topical corticosteroid palette, parallel with new modern formulations.