MEDICAL INFORMATION: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication, especially combination products containing corticosteroids.
Dermatin® & Dermatin Cort®: A Guide to Topical Antifungal Treatment
Summary
The Dermatin® family of products, manufactured by PHARCO, offers topical treatments for fungal skin infections. The product line includes two main types: the standard Dermatin®, which contains the antifungal agent Clotrimazole, and Dermatin Cort®, which combines Clotrimazole with a mild corticosteroid, Hydrocortisone, to treat fungal infections that are also inflamed and itchy.
Manufacturer
PHARCO Pharmaceuticals, Egypt.
Understanding the Dermatin® Family
It's crucial to understand the difference between the two main products in this line:
- Dermatin® (Standard Formula)
- Active Ingredient: Clotrimazole 1%.
- Action: Purely antifungal. It kills the fungi causing the infection.
- Use For: Simple, non-inflamed fungal infections like athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
- Dermatin Cort® (Combination Formula)
- Active Ingredients: Clotrimazole + Hydrocortisone.
- Action: Antifungal + Anti-inflammatory. It kills the fungi AND reduces the associated redness, swelling, and itching.
- Use For: Fungal infections where inflammation is a significant symptom. It is typically used for a short duration (e.g., up to 7 days) to control the inflammation, after which treatment may continue with a plain antifungal.
Available Forms & Strengths in Egypt
The Dermatin family is available in several topical forms, each with specific uses:
- Dermatin 1% Cream (14 gm): A versatile cream for general use on most skin areas.
- Dermatin 1% Powder (10 gm): Ideal for moist areas like skin folds, between the toes, or in the groin area to keep the skin dry and prevent recurrence. Avoid inhaling the powder.
- Dermatin 1% Topical Solution (20 ml): A liquid form suitable for hairy areas or for fungal infections of the nail bed. Can also be used for external ear fungal infections (otomycosis), but only if the eardrum is intact.
- Dermatin Cort Cream (12 gm): The combination cream for inflamed fungal infections.
Mechanism of Action
- Clotrimazole: Belongs to the imidazole class of antifungals. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. This disrupts the membrane's integrity, leading to the death of the fungus.
- Hydrocortisone (in Dermatin Cort): A mild topical corticosteroid that works by reducing the body's inflammatory response, which helps to relieve redness, swelling, and itching.
Indications for Dermatin® Products
- Tinea Infections: Tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea corporis (ringworm).
- Cutaneous Candidiasis: Fungal infections caused by Candida yeast.
- Pityriasis (Tinea) Versicolor: A common fungal infection that causes small, discolored patches on the skin.
- Use Dermatin Cort specifically when these infections are accompanied by significant itching and inflammation.
Important Warning Regarding Dermatin Cort®
Products containing corticosteroids, even mild ones like hydrocortisone, should be used with caution:
- Use for short periods only (typically not more than 7 days) unless directed by a doctor. Prolonged use can lead to skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks, and other side effects.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or underarms for long periods without medical supervision.
- Do not cover the treated area with occlusive dressings (like bandages or diapers) unless instructed by a doctor, as this can increase the absorption of the steroid.
- Do not use on viral or untreated bacterial skin infections, as the steroid may worsen them.
Dosage and Administration
- Clean and thoroughly dry the affected area.
- Apply a thin layer of the cream or solution to the affected skin and surrounding area, usually twice a day (morning and evening).
- For the powder, apply to the affected area 2-3 times daily to keep it dry.
- Continue treatment for the full duration prescribed by your doctor (often 2-4 weeks, and sometimes for 2 weeks after symptoms disappear) to prevent the infection from returning.
Side Effects
Side effects are generally mild and localized. They may include stinging, burning, itching, or irritation at the application site. If severe irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
My rash is very itchy. Should I use Dermatin or Dermatin Cort?
Dermatin Cort is specifically designed for itchy, inflamed fungal infections. It's often the best choice to start with for a few days to calm the inflammation. Once the itching and redness have subsided, your doctor may advise you to switch to standard Dermatin to complete the treatment.
How long does it take to work?
You should start to see an improvement in symptoms like itching and redness within a few days. However, it takes longer to completely clear the fungus, which is why it's crucial to continue the treatment for the full recommended course.
Can I use the powder and cream together?
Yes, this is a common and effective strategy. You can apply the cream first to treat the infection, and once it's absorbed, apply the powder to help keep the area dry and prevent the fungus from thriving in a moist environment.
References
- U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus): For patient-friendly information on Clotrimazole and Hydrocortisone. Clotrimazole Topical - MedlinePlus
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): For information on various fungal skin infections. AAD - Ringworm Treatment
- Product Information: Sourced from the internal leaflet provided by PHARCO.
Comments
Post a Comment