THE EFFECT OF A HYDROCOLLOID DERMATOLOGICAL PATCH (ACTIDERM) IN POTENTIATING THE SKIN BLANCHING ACTIVITY OF TRIAMCINOLONE ACETONIDE

Volunteer studies were carried out to assess the effect of a hydrocolloid containing dermatological patch (Actiderm) on the skin blanching activity of triamcinolone acetonide applied in a range of topical vehicles. Multiple blanching assessments were carried out following different application times (up to 72 h). The series of response/time profiles generated enabled the effect of different dosing regimes to be evaluated by comparing changes in peak response and cumulative area under the curve. Actiderm markedly increased the topical bioavailability of triamcinolone acetonide from creams and alcoholic solutions: similar activity to that produced by Saran Wrap occlusion was achieved. In contrast, only a slight effect on bioavailability from an ointment application was demonstrated. When using Actiderm both the concentration and quantity of steroid cream applied can be reduced considerably from that used in conventional twice daily non-occlusive therapy whilst still achieving greater activity.