ALFACORT Ointment

What is ALFACORT

ALFACORT Ointment is a topical corticosteroid preparation containing Hydrocortisone, designed to manage and relieve various inflammatory and allergic skin conditions. The ointment form is particularly suited for treating dry, scaly, or thickened skin lesions due to its occlusive and moisturizing properties.

• Generic Name: Hydrocortisone
• Form: Topical ointment
• Strength: Typically 1% w/w
• Packaging: 15g tube
• Classification: Mild potency corticosteroid

ALFACORT is used for short-term treatment of dermatological conditions such as:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Eczema
• Contact dermatitis
• Psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque-type)
• Insect bites and stings
• Pruritus (itchy skin) from various causes

Its formulation as an ointment allows for greater skin penetration and longer-lasting action, particularly beneficial in dry or thickened lesions. The hydrophobic base forms a protective layer on the skin, helping to retain moisture and enhance drug absorption.

How to use ALFACORT

Correct usage of ALFACORT Ointment ensures safety and efficacy while reducing the risk of side effects.

• Preparation:
  • Wash and dry your hands before and after use.
  • Clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water.
  • Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
• Application:
  • Apply a thin film of the ointment to the affected area.
  • Gently rub in until the product disappears or forms a light coating.
  • Do not use under bandages or wraps unless prescribed by your doctor.
• Frequency: Typically applied 1–2 times daily, depending on severity.
• Duration: Limit continuous use to 7 days unless under medical supervision.

Special Precautions:

• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
• Do not use on broken, infected, or oozing skin without a doctor’s direction.
• Discontinue if condition worsens or no improvement is seen within one week.

Mode of Action ALFACORT

Hydrocortisone, the active ingredient in ALFACORT Ointment, is a corticosteroid that mimics the body’s natural glucocorticoids. Its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects are localized when applied topically.

• Mechanisms of Action:
  • Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes which are key mediators of inflammation.
  • Immunosuppressive: Reduces migration of white blood cells (WBCs) and reverses capillary dilation, decreasing local immune responses.
  • Vasoconstriction: Narrows small blood vessels in the skin, reducing redness and swelling.

Upon application, hydrocortisone diffuses through the epidermis and binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. This binding leads to gene modulation and downregulation of inflammatory signals. The occlusive nature of the ointment base enhances percutaneous absorption and maintains prolonged local action.

Systemic absorption is minimal when used appropriately, but increases with prolonged use, broken skin, large surface area application, or occlusion.

ALFACORT Interactions ALFACORT

Although topical hydrocortisone generally has a low risk of drug interactions, caution should still be exercised, particularly with concomitant skin treatments or extensive use.

• Topical Interactions:
  • Antimicrobials (e.g., neomycin, miconazole): May be inactivated by steroids or their effect masked.
  • Other corticosteroids: May increase risk of skin thinning or systemic effects when used concurrently.
  • Cosmetics/irritants: May worsen skin irritation or interfere with absorption.
• Systemic Interactions (if absorbed):
  • Immunosuppressants: Additive immunosuppression possible with agents like cyclosporine.
  • Vaccines: Topical steroids may reduce the local immune response to skin-administered vaccines or tests.

Patients should avoid using multiple topical agents on the same site without medical advice. Any persistent irritation, burning, or worsening of condition should prompt discontinuation and physician consultation.

Dosage of ALFACORT

The dosage of ALFACORT Ointment should be personalized according to the condition, severity, and treatment area. Hydrocortisone is a low-potency corticosteroid, making it suitable for sensitive areas such as the face and intertriginous zones, under guidance.

• Adults: Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area 1–2 times daily.
• Children: Use with caution; no more than once daily and under strict supervision.
• Duration: Short-term use, usually 5–7 days. If no improvement is seen, consult a physician.
• Amount:
  • 1 fingertip unit (FTU) ≈ 0.5g of ointment, enough for two adult hand-sized areas.
  • Do not exceed prescribed amount, especially in children.

Patients with chronic skin diseases may require intermittent courses to control flares. Prolonged continuous use should be avoided due to the risk of local and systemic side effects.

Possible side effects of ALFACORT

While ALFACORT Ointment is well tolerated in most patients, improper or prolonged use can lead to a range of local and systemic side effects.

• Local Side Effects:
  • Skin thinning (atrophy)
  • Telangiectasia (visible small blood vessels)
  • Stretch marks (striae)
  • Burning, stinging, or itching at the application site
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Increased susceptibility to skin infections
• Allergic Reactions:
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Redness or swelling at the site
  • Rash or itching
• Rare Systemic Effects (with excessive use):
  • Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis
  • Increased intraocular pressure (if applied near eyes)
  • Cushing’s syndrome-like symptoms (in long-term or high-dose use)

Report any severe, unusual, or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider. In children, monitor for growth suppression if used chronically.

ALFACORT Contraindications ALFACORT

ALFACORT Ointment should not be used in certain conditions due to risk of worsening symptoms, inadequate efficacy, or potential complications.

• Hypersensitivity: Allergy to Hydrocortisone or any excipients in the ointment.
• Untreated infections:
  • Bacterial (e.g., impetigo)
  • Fungal (e.g., ringworm)
  • Viral (e.g., herpes simplex, chickenpox)
• Skin conditions like:
  • Rosacea
  • Acne vulgaris
  • Perioral dermatitis
• Use in infants: Avoid in the diaper area or on broken skin unless directed by a pediatrician.

Medical evaluation is essential before initiating corticosteroid treatment, especially in patients with chronic skin diseases or history of steroid overuse.

Storage of ALFACORT

Proper storage of ALFACORT Ointment ensures product efficacy and reduces the risk of contamination or degradation.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F); avoid refrigeration or freezing.
• Protect from Light and Moisture: Keep in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep Tube Tightly Closed: Prevents drying out or microbial contamination.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Especially important in households with toddlers.
• Do Not Use After Expiry: Check the packaging for the expiration date before use.

Discard appropriately as per local pharmaceutical disposal regulations. Do not flush or throw into general waste bins if avoidable.