The Systemic and Local Effects of Dexamethasone, Triamcinolone, 6α-Fluorotriamcinolone, and Certain of Their Derivatives, Compared by Reference to Their Influence on the Foreign-Body Granuloma, on the Weight of the Adrenals and Thymus, and on the Rate of Weight Gain

Abstract

The systemic and local effects of three corticosteroids and their derivatives dexamethasone pivalate, triamcinolone acetonide and 6α-fluorotriamcinolone acetonide on inflammatory reactions (cotton-pellet granuloma), the weight of the adrenal and thymus, and on body weight have been studied. It was found that these corticosteroids and their derivatives can be differentiated on the basis of their rates of absorption following local application in effective anti-inflammatory doses. It appears that the extent of systemic effects is far less pronounced after local application of corticosteroids chosen on the basis of their ability to maintain a high concentration at the site treated, independently of their intrinsic activity. The advantages of such substances of which dexamethasone pivalate is a representative, are discussed.