An attempt to evaluate the relative clinical potencies of various diluted and undiluted proprietary corticosteroid preparations

SUMMARY Two series of tests have been performed in order to assess the vasoconstrictor potency of several diluted and undiluted proprietary corticosteroid preparations. Results showed that differences in concentration of a particular corticosteroid were not always reflected as significant differences in vasoconstrictor potency. A previous finding that Eumovate® ointment exhibits early vasoconstrictor activity similar to that of Betnovate® ointment was confirmed. The extemporaneous dilution of proprietary corticosteroid preparations remains a widespread but controversial habit. In addition, several proprietary products are represented by a range of dilutions of the same corticosteroid with each concentration targeted at a different segment of the market place. Recent work by our group has revealed some interesting results concerning the vasoconstrictor potency of both diluted and undiluted preparations (Gibson et al., 1982). The aim of this study was to extend the investigation to cover a number of widely used preparations.