title: The dilution of proprietary corticosteroid ointments--an attempt to evaluate relative clinical potencies.
abstract: Ten subjects were assessed using the vasoconstrictor assay technique in a double-blind study in order to evaluate the potencies of several diluted and undiluted proprietary corticosteroid ointments. Results showed that clobetasol propionate 0.05% (Dermovate) ointment at a dilution of one part in ten (clobetasol propionate 0.005%) in white soft paraffin was equipotent with betamethasone valerate 0.1% (Betnovate) ointment; and no difference in potency was demonstrated between beclomethasone dipropionate 0.025% (Propaderm), betamethasone valerate 0.1% (Betnovate) and clobetasone butyrate 0.05% (Eumovate).
mesh_terms: D000287:Administration, Topical; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone; D008297:Male; D009823:Ointment Bases; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000187:drug effects; D014661:Vasoconstriction / Q000187:drug effects*
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D009823:Ointment Bases; D006854:Hydrocortisone