Studies on Adrenocortical Suppression Following Percutaneous Absorption of Topical Corticosteroids

—Observations on 0.025% Beclomethasone 17, 21-Dipropionate Ointment Applied under Simple Method—

Abstract

Five patients with psoriasis or eczema were treated for 7 consecutive days with 0.025% beclomethasome 17, 21-dipropionate ointment 20g-40g daily (5mg-10mg beclomethasone 17,21-dipropionate). The serum 11-OHCS levels and urinary 17-OHCS levels were estimated for fifteen days before, during and after treatment. The eosinophil counts, blood glucose levels and urinary Na⁺ excreted were also estimated. The serum 11-OHCS levels were lowered in one case of eczema, but it was temporary. Decreasing of eosinophil counts and increasing of urinary Na⁺ excreted occurred in another case of eczema. The clinical effect was equal with, or better than some other steroids. The results indicate that the use of 0.025% beclomethasone 17, 21-dipropionate ointment, 20g-40g daily results in percutaneous absorption of beclomethasone 17, 21-dipropionate to cause inhibition of adrenocortical function, which is extremely slight, in patients with eczema.