Alfacort Ointment

What is Alfacort

ALFACORT Ointment is a topical corticosteroid product containing Hydrocortisone, formulated as a semi-solid ointment for enhanced skin penetration. Offered in a 30 g collapsible tube, it’s ideal for treating dry, thickened, or lichenified skin, where a moisturizing base helps retain hydration and improve drug uptake.

• Generic Name: Hydrocortisone
• Form: Ointment (hydrophobic emollient base)
• Strength: Generally 1% w/w
• Packaging: 30 g collapsible tube
• Drug Class: Low-potency topical corticosteroid

ALFACORT is indicated for managing inflammatory skin disorders such as:

• Atopic eczema
• Chronic hand/foot dermatitis
• Lichen simplex chronicus
• Psoriasis (localized plaques)
• Contact dermatitis
• Pruritic dermatoses

As an ointment, it offers occlusive and emollient properties, making it more suitable than a cream in conditions with excessive dryness or thickened skin. The base supports longer contact time, enhancing the anti‑inflammatory action of hydrocortisone.

How to use Alfacort

To use ALFACORT Ointment effectively while reducing risks, follow these steps:

• Preparation:
  • Cleanse the affected area gently with mild soap and lukewarm water; pat dry.
  • Wash hands before and after application unless treating the hands directly.
• Application:
  • Apply a thin film—about a fingertip unit (FTU) roughly equals 0.5 g—to cover the lesion.
  • Massage gently until the ointment is fully absorbed.
• Use Frequency: Generally once or twice daily, based on medical advice.
• Duration: Limit continuous use to 7–14 days; re-evaluate if symptoms persist or recur.

Avoid applying under occlusive dressings unless explicitly prescribed, and do not use on infected or broken skin without medical guidance.

Mode of Action Alfacort

Hydrocortisone, the active ingredient in ALFACORT Ointment, is a low‑potency corticosteroid that alleviates inflammation through several mechanisms:

• Suppresses inflammatory mediators: Inhibits enzymes like phospholipase A₂, reducing arachidonic acid derivatives (prostaglandins, leukotrienes).
• Immunomodulatory effects: Dampens local immune cell activity (e.g., lymphocytes, macrophages), limiting inflammatory infiltrate.
• Vasoconstriction: Narrows superficial blood vessels, reducing redness, heat, and swelling.

After topical application, the ointment’s hydrophobic base helps hydration and prolongs contact with the skin, increasing local drug absorption and effect. Hydrocortisone binds intracellularly to glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene expression to reduce inflammatory signals.

Alfacort Interactions Alfacort

While systemic drug interactions are rare with topical hydrocortisone, local interactions and additive effects can still occur:

• Other topicals: Combining with antifungals or antibacterials may mask underlying infection or alter absorption.
• Topical steroid overlap: Avoid using two corticosteroid preparations concurrently over the same area to prevent skin atrophy.
• Irritant agents: Agents like retinoids or keratolytics may cause inflammation or increase hydrocortisone absorption.
• Vaccinations/skin tests: May reduce local immune response when applied to test or injection sites.

Communicate all cosmetics, OTC topicals, and prescribed drugs to your healthcare provider to avoid adverse effects or loss of efficacy.

Dosage of Alfacort

Dosage should be individualized based on lesion size, severity, site, and patient age. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration:

• Adults: Thin layer applied once or twice daily.
• Children: Apply sparingly once daily under supervision; pediatrics are at higher risk of systemic absorption.
• FTU guide:
  • 1 FTU ≈ 0.5 g covers two adult palms.
  • Adjust quantity accordingly for extremities or smaller areas.
• Maximum duration: Generally 7–14 days unless otherwise instructed.
• Chronic management: If recurrent, use intermittent (weekend-only) therapy under medical supervision.

Exceeding recommended dosage or duration increases risk of side effects without added benefit.

Possible side effects of Alfacort

Proper use of ALFACORT Ointment is safe, yet prolonged or inappropriate use may cause:

• Local effects:
  • Skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks
  • Telangiectasia (visible capillaries)
  • Burning, stinging, itching
  • Folliculitis, milia or acneiform eruptions
• Allergic responses:
  • Contact dermatitis or redness
  • Blistering or rash in rare cases
• Systemic risks (rare):
  • HPA axis suppression (especially in children or widespread use)
  • Increased intraocular pressure if used near eyelids
  • Cushingoid symptoms with prolonged overuse

Should side effects arise or persist, discontinue the ointment and consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Alfacort Contraindications Alfacort

ALFACORT Ointment should not be used in the following scenarios:

• Known allergy to hydrocortisone or vehicle components.
• Untreated skin infections (bacterial, fungal, viral).
• Conditions exacerbated by corticosteroids, such as:
• Rosacea
• Acne vulgaris
• Perioral dermatitis
• Use near eyes unless under ophthalmologic supervision.
• In infants on diaper‑covered areas unless directed by a pediatrician.

For sensitive or complex skin conditions, consult a specialist for diagnosis and appropriate management.

Storage of Alfacort

To maintain potency and ensure safety, adhere to proper storage:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature (≤25 °C / 77 °F); avoid refrigeration or heat exposure.
• Packaging: Keep in original tube with cap securely closed.
• Protection: Avoid direct sunlight and moisture to prevent degradation.
• Child Safety: Store out of reach and sight of children.
• Expiry: Discard after the printed expiration date.
• Disposal: Follow local regulations; do not discard in household trash or flush.

Proper storage preserves stability and helps ensure safe use over the product’s lifespan.