Dermasol-N Ointment

Indications

Dermasol-N serves the following purposes:

• Management of stubborn eczemas over short periods.
• Treatment of neurodermatoses.
• Addressing psoriasis cases (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis) accompanied by secondary bacterial or fungal infections, or where such infections are anticipated.
• Alleviating other inflammatory conditions that show unsatisfactory response to milder steroids.

Pharmacology

Clobetasol Propionate, a potent corticosteroid, is prescribed for severe inflammatory skin disorders like eczema and psoriasis resistant to weaker corticosteroids. Neomycin Sulphate, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, combats bacterial infections, while Nystatin, an antifungal agent, targets fungi and yeasts. Clobetasol Propionate exerts a potent anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, partly through vasoconstriction and reduction in collagen synthesis. Neomycin disrupts bacterial protein synthesis by binding to ribosomal subunits, while Nystatin alters fungal cell membrane permeability, leading to intracellular component leakage.

Dosage & Administration

For adults, sparingly apply to affected areas once or twice daily until improvement, not exceeding 7 days without medical oversight. In very resistant lesions, occlusion with polythene can enhance the anti-inflammatory effect. Elderly individuals can use it cautiously. Children aged 2 years and above can use it at adult doses, but it’s not recommended for neonates and infants under 2 years due to potential increased absorption.

Interaction

Neomycin Sulphate, if systemically absorbed, can potentiate respiratory depressant effects of neuromuscular blocking agents. However, with proper usage, significant drug interactions are unlikely. Clobetasol Propionate and Nystatin have no reported hazardous interactions.

Contraindications

This medication is not suitable for rosacea, acne vulgaris, perioral dermatitis, primary cutaneous viral infections (e.g., Herpes simplex, chickenpox), or hypersensitivity reactions.

Side Effects

Prolonged use or extensive application may lead to systemic absorption and hypercortisolism features, more likely in infants, children, or with occlusive dressings. Local atrophic changes in the skin, pigmentation alterations, and hypertrichosis are reported with prolonged and intensive corticosteroid use.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Limited data exist on the effects of topically applied Neomycin in pregnancy and lactation. Caution is advised due to potential fetal toxicity risk. The safety of Clobetasol Propionate during lactation is uncertain.

Precautions & Warnings

Long-term continuous use, especially in infants and children, should be avoided to prevent adrenal suppression. Care must be taken to prevent eye contact, as glaucoma may result. If eye contact occurs, thoroughly rinse with water.

Overdose Effects

Acute overdosage is rare, but chronic misuse may lead to hypercortisolism symptoms. In such cases, discontinue topical steroids gradually.

Therapeutic Class

Clobetasol / Clobetasone & Combined Preparations.

Storage Conditions

Store below 25°C; avoid freezing. Keep out of reach of children.