Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Mixderm is a potent combination medication that should only be used under the strict supervision of a doctor and for the shortest duration possible.
Mixderm Cream: A Complete Guide to the Quadruple-Action Skin Cream
Manufacturer: Manufactured by October Pharma for SIGMA Pharmaceutical Industries.
Category: Combination Topical Corticosteroid, Antibiotic, and Antifungal
Active Ingredients (per gram):
- Betamethasone valerate (0.5 mg): A potent corticosteroid.
- Gentamicin sulphate (1.0 mg): A broad-spectrum antibiotic.
- Tolnaftate (10 mg): An antifungal agent.
- Clioquinol (10 mg): An antifungal and antibacterial agent.
Available Form: Cream in 15 g and 30 g tubes.
Summary
Mixderm Cream is a powerful, multi-ingredient topical preparation designed to treat inflamed skin conditions (dermatoses) that are either complicated by a secondary infection or are at risk of becoming infected. It provides a "shotgun" approach by combining four active ingredients: a potent steroid to fight inflammation and itching, a powerful antibiotic to kill bacteria, and two different antifungal agents to treat a wide range of fungal and yeast infections.
Mechanism of Action: A Four-in-One Approach
Mixderm's effectiveness comes from its four components working simultaneously:
- Betamethasone (Anti-inflammatory): A potent corticosteroid that rapidly reduces inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching associated with skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
- Gentamicin (Antibacterial): A broad-spectrum antibiotic that kills a wide variety of bacteria that can cause secondary skin infections.
- Tolnaftate (Antifungal): A specific fungicidal agent that is highly effective against the types of fungi that cause tinea infections (ringworm), such as athlete's foot (tinea pedis) and jock itch (tinea cruris).
- Clioquinol (Antifungal/Antibacterial): An older agent that has activity against both fungi and some bacteria, providing an additional layer of antimicrobial coverage.
Therapeutic Indications: When is Mixderm Used?
Mixderm is indicated for corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses when complicated by, or at risk of, secondary bacterial and/or fungal infections. Such disorders include:
- Infected eczema or dermatitis (atopic, contact, seborrheic).
- Intertrigo (inflammation in skin folds).
- Neurodermatitis (lichen simplex chronicus).
- Impetigo, folliculitis.
- Tinea infections (ringworm) that are severely inflamed, such as tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea corporis (ringworm of the body).
Dosage and Administration
A thin film of Mixderm cream should be applied to completely cover the affected area two or three times daily, as prescribed by a physician. The frequency and duration of therapy depend on the severity and nature of the condition. For fungal infections like tinea pedis, a longer duration of therapy (2-4 weeks) may be necessary.
Key Contraindications, Warnings, and Side Effects
- Contraindications: A history of hypersensitivity to any of the components. Not for use on simple, non-infected skin conditions.
- Corticosteroid Side Effects: This is the most significant risk. Prolonged use of this potent steroid can lead to skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks (striae), acne-like eruptions, and hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin).
- Systemic Absorption: Using Mixderm on large areas of skin, for prolonged periods, or under occlusion (e.g., under a diaper or bandage) can lead to systemic absorption of the steroid and antibiotic, which can cause significant side effects, especially in infants and children.
- Staining: The Clioquinol in Mixderm can cause a yellowish stain on skin and clothing.
- Ophthalmic Use: Mixderm is for external skin use only and must NEVER be used in or around the eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why does Mixderm have four active ingredients?
- It's designed for complex situations where a doctor suspects both inflammation and a mixed infection (bacterial and/or fungal). It provides broad coverage to treat all potential causes simultaneously. However, because of its potency, it should only be used when necessary and for a limited time.
- Can I use Mixderm for a simple diaper rash?
- No. Using a potent steroid combination like Mixderm for a simple diaper rash is not recommended and can be harmful. The skin in the diaper area is thin and under occlusion, which increases absorption and the risk of side effects. A simple barrier cream or a milder anti-inflammatory should be used unless prescribed by a doctor for a severe, complicated rash.
- Will Mixderm stain my clothes?
- Yes, it is very likely. The active ingredient Clioquinol is known to leave a yellow stain on skin, nails, and fabric. It is advisable to wear older clothing or use a protective dressing over the area after application to avoid staining.
Sources
- Mixderm Information - Drugs.com
- Betamethasone - StatPearls, NCBI
- Official Product Leaflet for Mixderm.