Skin drugs Flashcards
What are some examples of antihistamines and what are they used for?
cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine, chlorphenamine
used to treat allergies, itch and adjuvant therapies in anaphylaxis
What are some adverse reactions of antihistamines?
first generation (chlorphenamine) used to cause sedation
What are some warnings and interactions with antihistamines?
no interactions and very safe but sedative antihistamines should be avoided in severe liver disease
What are some examples of topical corticosteroids and what are they used for?
hydrocortisone, betamethasone
used in inflammatory skin conditions when emollients are not enough e.g. eczema
What are some adverse effects of topical corticosteroids?
mostly local adverse effects - skin thinning, straie, contact dermatitis, acne when used on face
can be rebound worsening of skin condition
What are some warnings and interactions of topical corticosteroids?
don’t use on infection or facial lesions
no significant interactions
What are some emollients, what are they used for and how do they work?
aqueous cream, liquid paraffin
for dry and scaling skin disorders (e.g. eczema, psoriasis)
they replace water content, soften the skin to reduce water loss
What are some adverse effects of emollients?
greasiness - integral to function
worsen acne or folliculitis
What are some warnings and interactions of emollients?
fire hazard
no significant interactions
