Laleh Vaziri, Saman Ahmad Nasrollahi, Alireza Firooz,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (Volume 6, Number 2 2015)
Abstract
Topical corticosteroids (TCs) are very useful in the treatment of some skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis. TCs exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects responsible for their efficacy in the treatment of skin disorders. TCs can be classified into different groups according to their potency that depends on the intrinsic activity of the corticosteroid molecule, the characteristics of the vehicle (cream, ointment, lotion) that directly influence patient’s compliance and may modify penetration through the skin. British National Formulary classified them into four potency groups with Class I grouping the most potent molecules (e.g. clobetasol propionate) and Class IV the least potent (e.g. hydrocortisone). In contrast, the American classification considers seven potency groups, with super potent, potent, upper mid-strength, mid-strength, lower mid-strength, mild and least potent.
