Integumentary System
Lesson 5: Dermatological Drugs
5-8
5-8. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENTS
a. General. As the name implies, these medications deal with skin lesions that are inflamed. Inflammation is a tissue reaction to irritation, infection, or injury characterized by localized heat, swelling, redness, and pain. Steroids applied to the inflamed area are the most effective treatment. Steroids affect the epidermis and the dermis in diseased skin and reduce swelling, redness, and pain. Even though an anti- inflammatory agent reduces inflammation, the agent does not cure the problem if the cause of inflammation persists.
b. Hydrocortisone Cream and Ointment.
(1) Hydrocortisone is one of approximately thirty steroid hormones extracted from the adrenal cortex (one of the two sections in each adrenal gland). Hydrocortisone and other steroids from the adrenal cortex change the normal inflammatory responses of the body by reducing inflammation. For application on the skin, this drug is available in creams, lotions, talc, and ointments. When applied on the skin, skin inflammation is reduced, but the cause of the inflammation is not cured. Medication containing hydrocortisone relieves the symptoms of all kinds of allergic reactions. Since allergic reactions are usually only temporary, hydrocortisone allows the patient to be largely symptom-free while the allergy runs its natural course. Fungus skin diseases are successfully treated with hydrocortisone.
(2) Some precautions should be taken when using steroids. Caution patients not to get the drug near their eyes. If a patient's skin becomes irritated, discontinue use of the steroid. Steroids such as hydrocortisone can be absorbed into a person's system through the skin; therefore, watch for sudden increase in fat in the patient's face or upper torso. Also watch for emotional or psychological changes in patients. Do not use steroids if the patient has impaired circulation; steroids could cause ulcers to form.
