Locoïd

Locoid contains hydrocortisone butyrate, a moderately potent (Group II) topical corticosteroid used for the treatment of inflammatory and pruritic skin conditions that are responsive to corticosteroid therapy.

It is indicated for eczema, dermatitis (including atopic, contact, and seborrhoeic dermatitis), psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis), insect bite reactions, and other steroid-responsive dermatoses.

Despite sharing the hydrocortisone name with the mild Group I preparation, hydrocortisone butyrate is approximately four to five times more potent due to the butyrate ester, which enhances skin penetration and local anti-inflammatory activity.

This positions Locoid as a step-up treatment for patients whose condition has not responded adequately to mild corticosteroids, while still offering a more favourable safety profile than potent or very potent preparations.

Locoid is available as a cream, ointment, lipocream, and scalp lotion, providing formulation options for different body sites and skin types.

Its intermediate potency makes it a versatile choice for treating inflammatory dermatoses on the body and limbs.

Apply a thin film to the affected area one to three times daily, gently rubbing in. Use the minimum amount needed to cover the area and the shortest treatment duration required to control symptoms.

Wash hands after application unless treating the hands. Do not cover with airtight dressings unless instructed by your prescriber.

For the scalp lotion, part the hair and apply a few drops directly to the affected scalp. Review treatment after two to four weeks.

Adults and children over one year: apply thinly to the affected area one to three times daily.

Reduce frequency as the condition improves and step down to a milder corticosteroid for maintenance if possible. Continuous treatment should generally not exceed two to four weeks without review.

In children, limit application to the smallest area and shortest time necessary. The scalp lotion should be applied sparingly to affected areas of the scalp.

Uncommon with appropriate short-term use.

With prolonged or excessive application: skin thinning (atrophy), striae, telangiectasia, contact dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, acneiform eruptions, hypertrichosis, and depigmentation.

On the face, extended use carries a higher risk of steroid-induced rosacea and perioral dermatitis.

Rare: systemic absorption leading to adrenal suppression is possible with extensive or occluded application, particularly in children, but is unlikely with appropriate use of a moderately potent preparation.

Avoid prolonged use on the face, where a maximum of five to seven days is advisable. Do not apply to infected skin unless a suitable antimicrobial agent is being used concurrently.

Long-term use may mask the clinical signs of skin infection. In children, growth retardation and adrenal suppression are theoretical risks with prolonged widespread use; monitor accordingly.

Taper gradually if used continuously for extended periods to avoid rebound flares. Avoid contact with the eyes.

Contraindicated in untreated bacterial, viral, or fungal skin infections (including herpes simplex, varicella, and dermatophyte infections), acne vulgaris, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, and known hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone butyrate or any excipient.

Not recommended for infants under one year of age without specialist guidance.