From the Guidelines
For contact dermatitis, topical corticosteroids and topical tacrolimus are the primary treatment options, as they have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response in the skin 1. When managing contact dermatitis, it is essential to consider the severity and extent of the condition.
- For mild cases, over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream can be used as a first-line treatment.
- For more severe or widespread dermatitis, a medium-potency steroid like triamcinolone 0.1% cream applied thinly to affected areas twice daily for 1-2 weeks may be necessary.
- In cases where topical corticosteroids are not effective, topical tacrolimus can be used as a steroid-free alternative, especially for sensitive areas like the face 1. Additional treatment options may include:
- Antihistamines like cetirizine 10mg daily or diphenhydramine 25mg every 6 hours to help control itching.
- Moisturizers applied frequently to repair the skin barrier; fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products are best.
- Identification and avoidance of the triggering substance to prevent recurrence. It is crucial to note that second-line treatment options, such as phototherapy and systemic immunomodulators like methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil, may be considered for persistent contact dermatitis 1. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, suppress the immune response, and prevent recurrence by avoiding the triggering substance, thereby improving morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outcomes 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Topical corticosteroids such as clobetasol propionate are effective in the treatment of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses primarily because of their anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions. The medications for contact dermatitis include topical corticosteroids such as clobetasol propionate due to their anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive effects 2.
- Clobetasol propionate is a highly potent topical corticosteroid that can be used to treat corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.
- It is essential to use clobetasol propionate as directed by a physician and for the prescribed time period to avoid potential side effects 2.
From the Research
Medications for Contact Dermatitis
The following medications are used to treat contact dermatitis:
- Topical corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone 0.1% or clobetasol 0.05%, are used to treat localized acute allergic contact dermatitis lesions 3
- Systemic steroid therapy, such as oral prednisone, is used to treat extensive areas of skin (greater than 20 percent) affected by allergic contact dermatitis 3
- Topical noncorticosteroid immunomodulators, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, are used to treat atopic dermatitis, but may also be effective in treating contact dermatitis 4
Treatment of Specific Types of Contact Dermatitis
- Irritant contact dermatitis can be treated with topical corticosteroids, such as betamethasone-17-valerate, which have been shown to improve healing of irritant skin reactions 5
- Allergic contact dermatitis can be treated with mid- or high-potency topical steroids, such as triamcinolone 0.1% or clobetasol 0.05%, and systemic steroid therapy, such as oral prednisone, for more extensive areas of skin 3