[Age-dependent differences in the pharmacodynamic effect of topically applied Corticosteroids].

The results of comparative studies with corticosteroid topicals on age-associated differences are presented. In each of the test series 10 to 14 subjects were included, either young adults aged 18-24 years or older adults aged 65-76 years. Tests on vasoconstriction were carried out with alcoholic solutions of amcinonide (the active principle of the dermatic Amciderm), betamethasone 17-valerate and triamcinolone acetonide. Comparative studies with ointments included clobetasol 17-propionate instead of triamcinolone acetonide. Additionally, the kerosene test was performed to evaluate the age-dependency of this non-allergic inflammatory response and also to compare the antiinflammatory activity of the corticosteroids due to the age differences. In the vasoconstriction tests higher potencies were determined in the younger than in the older test subjects. In the kerosene test significant differences could be shown between the age classes with a view to the reaction to the irritant as well as the suppressive activity of the corticosteroids. Since the individual variations in the older groups were greater than those in the younger groups, the differences between the steroids were less distinct in the former ones. In testing and in therapeutic administration of corticosteroid topicals age differences should be regarded in view of skin reaction.