Ulticort Cream

Indications

Ulticort 0.05% is a highly potent corticosteroid specifically designed to alleviate inflammation and itching associated with corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions. It is recommended that treatment not exceed two consecutive weeks, and the total dosage should remain under 50 grams per week due to the potential risk of suppressing the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis.
Always follow the advice of a registered healthcare professional when using this medication.

Pharmacology

Like other topical corticosteroids, halobetasol propionate exhibits anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. While the precise mechanism of action for these topical corticosteroids remains unclear, it is believed they function by inducing proteins known as lipocortins that inhibit phospholipase A2. This action likely helps regulate the production of powerful inflammatory mediators, including prostaglandins and leukotrienes, by preventing the release of their precursor, arachidonic acid, from membrane phospholipids.

Dosage & Administration

Apply a thin layer of Halobetasol Cream or Ointment to the affected area of skin once or twice daily, as directed by your physician. Ensure the cream is gently rubbed in until fully absorbed. Given its super-high potency, treatment with Halobetasol 0.05% should be limited to a maximum of two weeks, and amounts exceeding 50 grams per week should be avoided. Once control of the condition is achieved, discontinue the therapy. If no improvement occurs within two weeks, it may be necessary to reassess the diagnosis. Avoid using Halobetasol under occlusive dressings.
Always follow the advice of a registered healthcare professional when using this medication.

Contraindications

Halobetasol Propionate Cream/Ointment should not be used by individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Side Effects

Although side effects from topical corticosteroids are rare, they may include: burning, itching, dryness, acne folliculitis, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, skin thinning, secondary infections, stretch marks, and miliaria.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Topical corticosteroids should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. It is unclear if topical corticosteroids can reach systemic circulation and be present in breast milk, so caution is advised when administering these medications to nursing mothers.

Precautions & Warnings

Topical corticosteroids can lead to systemic absorption, potentially causing reversible suppression of the HPA axis, symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria. Patients applying potent topical steroids over large surface areas or under occlusive dressings should be regularly monitored for signs of HPA axis suppression, which may include urinary free cortisol and ACTH stimulation tests. If suppression is detected, consider reducing the frequency of application, withdrawing the medication, or switching to a less potent steroid.

Use in Special Populations

The use of Ulticort cream and ointment is not recommended for children under 12 years of age, as safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established. Children are more susceptible to HPA axis suppression when treated with topical corticosteroids compared to adults.

Therapeutic Class

Other Topical Corticosteroids

Storage Conditions

Store at temperatures below 30°C. Keep this and all other medications out of reach of children.