f. The prolonged administration of glucocorticoids in children should be
restricted to the most urgent indications due to the adverse effects associated with
these agents.
g. Topical glucocorticoids should not be applied to open cuts or wounds
because of possible systemic absorption of the drugs.
h. Viral vaccinations should be avoided by patients who are on glucocorticoid
therapy.
9-12. GLUCOCORTICOID PREPARATIONS
a. Hydrocortisone (HC, Solu-Cortef). Hydrocortisone has a high level
glucocorticoid activity and a moderate level of mineralocorticoid activity. It is the drug
preferred for replacement therapy in acute or chronic adrenocortical insufficiency and in
forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This drug is available in oral, parenteral, and
topical dosage (e.g., dental paste).
b. Prednisone (Deltasone). Prednisone is a form of cortisone that is available
in parenteral and oral dosage forms. This agent is used primarily in the treatment of
inflammatory conditions, stress, or trauma. Prednisone has a high level of
glucocorticoid activity and a low level of mineralocorticoid activity. Hence, this agent is
not suitable to use as the only agent in treating patients who need drugs with sufficient
mineralocorticoid activity.
c. Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate (Solu-Medrol). This agent has a
high level of glucocorticoid activity and a low level of mineralocorticoid activity. It is
used in inflammatory and allergic conditions. Methylprednisolone is available in oral
and parenteral forms for systemic effects and in cream form for the local effects.
d. Dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol). Dexamethasone is a derivative
of methylprednisolone (a substance similar to prednisone) which is used primarily in
inflammatory or allergic conditions. Dexamethasone is available in inhalation, oral, and
injectable dosage forms. This drug has a high level of glucocorticoid activity and a low
level of mineralocorticoid activity.
e. Triamcinolone (Aristocortv, Kenalog). Triamcinolone has a high level of
glucocorticoid activity and a slight level of mineralocorticoid activity. This product is
available in oral and parenteral dosage forms for systemic effects and in various types
of topical dosage forms for local effects.
9-13. TOPICAL PREPARATIONS
a. Bethamethasone (Valisone). This product has a high level of
glucocorticoid activity and a slight level of mineralocorticoid activity. It is available in
MD0807
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