From the Guidelines
For pediatric dermatitis, a commonly prescribed lotion is hydrocortisone 1% cream or ointment, which should be applied thinly to the affected area 1-2 times daily for up to 7 days. This treatment is based on the principle of reducing inflammation, itching, and redness associated with skin rashes 1. However, it's essential to note that the provided evidence does not directly address the question of a commonly prescribed lotion for pediatric dermatitis.
Key Considerations
- The evidence from 1 discusses the use of vitamin D analogues, such as calcipotriene, calcipotriol, and calcitriol, in the treatment of psoriasis in pediatric patients, highlighting their corticosteroid-sparing function and safety in children.
- In contrast, 1 provides guidance on the management of skin reactions, including the avoidance of certain treatments like greasy creams, manipulation of skin, and hot blow-drying of hair, which may exacerbate skin conditions.
- For pediatric skin rashes, it's crucial to avoid applying medications to broken skin and to use them for the prescribed duration to prevent side effects like skin thinning.
- Maintaining good skin hygiene, avoiding harsh soaps, and dressing children in loose, cotton clothing can help prevent irritation and promote healing.
Treatment Options
- Hydrocortisone 1% cream or ointment is a common first-line treatment for pediatric skin rashes, applied thinly to the affected area 1-2 times daily for up to 7 days.
- For more severe rashes, triamcinolone 0.1% or desonide 0.05% may be prescribed for short-term use.
- In cases of fungal rashes, clotrimazole 1% or miconazole 2% cream may be recommended, applied twice daily for 2-4 weeks.
- If the rash appears infected, mupirocin 2% ointment might be prescribed.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily children under 2 years of age: ask a doctor children under 12 years of age: ask a doctor
A commonly prescribed lotion for pediatric dermatitis is hydrocortisone lotion, but it should be used under the guidance of a doctor, especially for children under 12 years of age 2.
- For children 2 years of age and older, hydrocortisone lotion can be applied to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily.
- For children under 2 years of age, a doctor should be consulted before use.
- For children under 12 years of age, a doctor should be consulted before use.
From the Research
Commonly Prescribed Lotions for Pediatric Dermatitis
- Hydrocortisone 1% is a commonly prescribed lotion for pediatric dermatitis, as seen in studies 3, 4, 5, 6
- Moisturizer containing licochalcone A is also effective in treating mild to moderate childhood atopic dermatitis, as shown in studies 3, 6
- Human breast milk has been found to be as effective as hydrocortisone 1% ointment in treating acute diaper dermatitis in infants, according to study 4
- Hydrocortisone butyrate 0.1% lipocream is safe and effective in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis, as reported in study 5
Treatment Guidelines
- Topical corticosteroids are recommended as first-line medication-based therapy for infants <2 years, as stated in study 7
- Pimecrolimus, a topical calcineurin inhibitor, may be used in infants as young as 3 months, according to study 7
- Liberal emollient usage and irritant avoidance are recommended as the cornerstone of treatment in all age-groups, as suggested in study 7