DROCOT

Description

“DROCOT” primarily refers to a topical cream containing Hydrocortisone, which is a mild corticosteroid. It’s used for various inflammatory skin conditions.

Product Overview

Active Ingredient:

• Hydrocortisone (0.5% w/w or 1.0% w/w): This is a corticosteroid, specifically a mild topical steroid.

Mechanism of Action: Hydrocortisone works by:

• Reducing Inflammation: It inhibits the production of various chemical messengers in the body (like prostaglandins and leukotrienes) that cause inflammation, redness, swelling, and itching.
• Suppressing Immune Response: As a corticosteroid, it also dampens the local immune response in the skin, which contributes to its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects.

Key Uses: Drocot Cream is used for the symptomatic treatment of various inflammatory and allergic skin conditions, which are characterized by redness, swelling, and itching. These include:

• Eczema (Dermatitis): Including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis (allergic or irritant), eczematoid dermatitis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
• Psoriasis: For milder cases or for specific areas, though stronger steroids might be needed for severe psoriasis.
• Insect Bites: To relieve itching and inflammation.
• Rashes: Various types of rashes due to allergic reactions, irritants, or other inflammatory causes.
• Pruritus (Itching): To alleviate severe itching associated with inflammatory skin conditions.
• Stasis Dermatitis: Skin inflammation due to poor circulation.
• Acute Actinic Dermatitis: Skin inflammation due to sun exposure.

Side Effects

Drocot Cream, being a mild topical steroid, generally has fewer systemic side effects compared to stronger steroids or oral corticosteroids. However, local side effects can occur, especially with prolonged or inappropriate use.

Common Side Effects (at the application site):

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Itching
• Redness (erythema)
• Dryness of the skin
• Skin irritation

Less Common / Potentially More Serious Side Effects (especially with prolonged use, on thin skin areas like the face/groin, or under occlusive dressings):

• Skin thinning (atrophy): Leading to fragility, transparency, and easy bruising.
• Stretch marks (striae): Particularly in skin folds.
• Telangiectasia: Visible small blood vessels.
• Acne-like rash
• Perioral dermatitis: A rash around the mouth.
• Hypertrichosis: Excessive hair growth in the treated area.
• Hypopigmentation: Lightening of the skin color.
• Secondary infections: Increased susceptibility to bacterial or fungal infections due to immune suppression.
• Allergic contact dermatitis: A rare allergic reaction to the cream itself.
• Systemic absorption: Although rare with mild topical steroids, extensive use over large body areas or prolonged use can lead to systemic side effects like adrenal suppression, Cushing’s syndrome, or hyperglycemia, especially in children.

Precautions

1. For External Use Only: Drocot Cream is meant only for application to the skin. Do not swallow. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nostrils, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water.
2. Specific Skin Conditions (Contraindications): Do NOT use Drocot Cream if you have:
   • Untreated bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic skin infections: Steroids can worsen these infections. This includes cold sores (herpes simplex), chickenpox, measles, ringworm, athlete’s foot, impetigo, or scabies.
   • Acne vulgaris or Rosacea: Steroids are generally not used for acne and can worsen rosacea.
   • Perioral dermatitis
   • Skin ulcers, wounds, or broken skin
   • Allergy to hydrocortisone or any other ingredients in the cream.
3. Areas to Avoid/Use with Caution:
   • Face, armpits (axillae), groin, and other skin folds: Skin in these areas is thinner and more prone to side effects like atrophy and stretch marks. Use on the face should be limited to very short durations (e.g., max 5 days) and only under a doctor’s strict guidance.
   • Children and Infants: Use with extreme caution and only as prescribed by a pediatrician. Children absorb more topical medication relative to their body surface area. Treatment in infants should not exceed one week.
4. Occlusive Dressings: Do not cover the treated area with airtight dressings, bandages, or waterproof coverings (like diapers in infants) unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can significantly increase absorption and the risk of side effects.
5. Prolonged Use: Do not use for longer than prescribed by your doctor. Prolonged use increases the risk of local and systemic side effects.
6. Psoriasis: If used for psoriasis, careful supervision is needed, as it can sometimes lead to a rebound flare-up or more severe forms of psoriasis upon discontinuation.
7. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before using Drocot Cream during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is limited safety data. If prescribed during breastfeeding, avoid applying it to the breast area or on large areas of skin.
8. Other Topical Products: Inform your doctor about any other topical medications you are using on the same area, as interactions or increased irritation may occur.
9. No Self-Medication: Do not use Drocot Cream for any condition other than for which it was prescribed, and do not share it with others.
10. If No Improvement: If your skin condition does not improve within the prescribed treatment period (e.g., 1-2 weeks for mild conditions), or if it worsens, consult your doctor.

Prescription Information

• Availability: Drocot Cream is commonly available in pharmacies in Nepal. Depending on the strength and local regulations, it may require a prescription.
• Dosage and Administration:
  • Frequency: Typically applied 1 to 2 times daily to the affected skin area.
  • Application:
    • Clean and dry the affected skin thoroughly before application.
    • Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected skin.
    • Gently rub it in until it disappears.
    • Wash your hands thoroughly after applying, unless your hands are the treated area.
  • Duration: The duration of treatment should be as short as possible, usually a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity and response. Do not use for prolonged periods without medical advice.
• Consistency: Use regularly as directed by your doctor. Do not apply more frequently or in larger amounts than prescribed.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place (usually below 25-30°C), away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiry date.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and any questions regarding your medical condition or medication