Safety and efficacy of fluticasone propionate in the topical treatment of skin diseases

Fluticasone propionate - the first carbothioate corticosteroid -
has been classified as a potent anti-inflammatory drug for
dermatological use. It is available as 0.05% cream and 0.005%
ointment formulations for the acute and maintenance treatment of
patients with dermatological disorders such as atopic dermatitis,
psoriasis and vitiligo. This glucocorticoid is characterized by
high lipophilicity, high glucocorticoid receptor binding and
activation, and a rapid metabolic turnover in skin. Although skin
blanching following fluticasone propionate exceeds that of
corticosteroids of medium strength, several clinical trials
demonstrate a low potential for cutaneous and systemic
side-effects, even in difficult-to-treat areas like the face, the
eyelids and intertriginous areas. Even among paediatric patients
with atopic dermatitis, fluticasone propionate proved to be safe
and effective. These pharmacological and clinical properties are
reflected by the high therapeutic index of this glucocorticoid.