From the Guidelines
Topical corticosteroids are commonly referred to by their potency classes, which include low, medium, high, and superpotent corticosteroids, with examples of specific medications including fluticasone, mometasone, clobetasol propionate, and desoximetasone 1, 2, 3, 4.
Potency Classes of Topical Corticosteroids
- Low potency: used for mild diseases and for longer periods to treat chronic conditions involving the trunk and extremities
- Medium potency: used for moderate diseases and as a proactive therapy to prevent relapses
- High potency: used for severe diseases, but with caution in highly sensitive skin areas to avoid skin atrophy
- Superpotent: used for localized or mild disease, and as a first-line treatment for generalized disease
Examples of Topical Corticosteroids
- Fluticasone: a low to medium potency corticosteroid used for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis
- Mometasone: a low to medium potency corticosteroid used for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis
- Clobetasol propionate: a high potency corticosteroid used for severe diseases, including bullous pemphigoid and alopecia areata
- Desoximetasone: a superpotent corticosteroid used for localized or mild disease. It is essential to use the least potent preparation required to keep the disease under control and to stop the corticosteroids for short periods when possible 5.
From the Research
Types of Topical Corticosteroids
There are various types of topical corticosteroids available, differing in potency and formulation 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
- They are classified based on their potency and action at the cellular level 9.
- The potency of topical corticosteroids can be assessed using various methods, including the Stoughton vasoconstrictor assay 9.
- Topical corticosteroids are available in different formulations, such as ointments, creams, lotions, gels, foams, oils, solutions, and shampoos 8, 10.
Classification of Topical Corticosteroids
Topical corticosteroids can be classified into different categories based on their strength and the risk of adverse effects 8.
- They are available in various potencies, including super-high-potency, high-potency, medium-potency, and low-potency corticosteroids 8.
- The choice of topical corticosteroid depends on the specific condition being treated, the area of the body affected, and the patient's individual needs 6, 7, 10.
Examples of Topical Corticosteroids
Some examples of topical corticosteroids include hydrocortisone, which was the first compound introduced 9.