Long‐term treatment with 6α‐methylprednisolone aceponate

Abstract

AbstractAim 6α‐Methylprednisolone aceponate (MPA) is a new steroid double ester for topical use, the potent action and lack of untoward side‐effects of which became evident in two different studies.Background Recent studies have proved the concept that MPA is both potent and extremely well tolerated when used for a relatively short time.Methods Two multicentre studies on patients with steroid responsive dermatoses using either MPA fatty ointment (n = 66) or MPA in a vehicle individually adapted to the patients' skin condition (n = 256) were conducted over a maximum of 4 and 6 months, respectively. Plasma Cortisol levels were determined in study I (n = 45) to reveal potential systemic effects.Results Complete healing and marked improvement were achieved in 86 % of 322 patients. There were no systemic side effects and no significant alteration in plasma Cortisol levels during and after treatment. Minor temporary local side effects were observed in 7%.Conclusion MPA (Advantan) is a potent antiinflammatory topical steroid virtually devoid of systemic adverse effects and with a low incidence of local side‐effects.