Prednicarbate (Dermatop): profile of a corticosteroid.

Topical steroids have been a popular choice for treating various cutaneous disorders; however, the potential for significant local and systemic adverse events, like skin atrophy and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, has limited their use. This article reviews the topical steroid prednicarbate through its mechanism of action, clinical efficacy, and adverse events profile. Published literature containing the word "prednicarbate" was examined and summarized. Prednicarbate is a nonhalogenated, double-ester derivative of prednisolone that has been used in the treatment of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses such as atopic dermatitis. It has a favorable benefit-risk ratio, low skin atrophy potential, and high anti-inflammatory action. These characteristics make prednicarbate an ideal alternative agent for children, elderly patients, and those who require long-term intermittent treatment.