Halobetasol Propionate 0.01% Lotion for Plaque Psoriasis and Corticosteroid-Responsive Dermatoses

A novel topical corticosteroid, halobetasol propionate (HP) 0.01% lotion (Bryhali™), has recently been introduced for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses in adults. Once daily application of HP 0.01% lotion is indicated for use up to 8 weeks. Treatment success for plaque psoriasis in the pivotal phase 3 clinical trials (defined as an Investigator Global Assessment [IGA] of clear/almost clear [IGA 0/1] with ≥2-grade improvement from baseline) occurred in over one-third of patients by week 8. Treatment-emergent adverse events were typically mild-to-moderate in intensity and usually limited to the application site(s). No treatment-related cases of skin atrophy have been reported from the studies. Counselling should be considered to optimize treatment outcomes.

An Open-Label Pilot Study to Investigate Safety and Efficacy of Fixed Combination Tazarotene 0.045% and Halobetasol Propionate 0.01% Lotion for the Treatment of Scalp Psoriasis

Up to 80% of individuals with plaque psoriasis have scalp involvement, which can have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. Despite advancements in psoriasis therapeutics, management of scalp involvement remains a challenge. This12-week, open-label pilot study assessed the safety and efficacy of fixed combination tazarotene 0.045% and halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion for the treatment of patients with mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis with scalp involvement. Among 20 patients who were followed through 12 weeks, there were significant improvements in the primary endpoint (Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA)) and most secondary endpoints (Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI), body surface area (BSA), and scalp IGA (sIGA)). Treatment was well-tolerated. Further placebo-controlled double-blinded study for confirmation of our results is recommended. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(11): 1191-1194. doi:10.36849/JDD.0102.

Fixed Combination Halobetasol Propionate and Tazarotene Lotion for Plaque Psoriasis

A novel fixed combination lotion containing the super-potent corticosteroid halobetasol propionate 0.01% and retinoid tazarotene 0.045% (Duobrii™) has recently been introduced and indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. Studies have shown that there is synergy between the ingredients and that the product can be safely used intermittently for up to 1 year. Treatment success (i.e., Investigator Global Assessment [IGA] of clear/almost clear [IGA 0/1] and at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline) occurred in 58.8% of participants at some point in a 1-year clinical trial. Persistence of treatment success is common after treatment discontinuation. Most treatment-emergent adverse events are application site reactions, mild to moderate in intensity, and occur primarily during the first 12 weeks. Counselling should be considered to optimize treatment outcomes.

Fixed-Combination Halobetasol Propionate/Tazarotene Lotion for Psoriasis in Patients With 3%-5% Affected Body Surface Area

INTRODUCTION

Patients with psoriasis and low body surface area (BSA) involvement often experience substantially reduced quality of life and may be candidates for topical therapies. Fixed-combination halobetasol propionate (0.01%) and tazarotene (0.045%) lotion (HP/TAZ) vs vehicle lotion was evaluated in participants with 3% to 5% BSA involvement.

METHODS

In two phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, 8-week studies (ClinicalTrial.gov identifiers: NCT02462070/NCT02462122), adults with moderate/severe investigator’s global assessment (IGA) score were randomized 2:1 to once-daily HP/TAZ or vehicle. Pooled post hoc analyses included participants with baseline BSA involvement of 3% to 5%. Measures included treatment success (≥2-grade IGA reduction, clear/almost clear score), reduction in affected BSA, and clinically meaningful improvement (reduction) of ≥4 points on dermatology life quality index (DLQI).

RESULTS

Of 418 participants, 232 had baseline BSA involvement of 3% to 5% (HP/TAZ, n=149; vehicle, n=83). At week 8, 42.7% of HP/TAZ-treated participants achieved treatment success, compared with 11.4% of vehicle-treated participants (P< .001). Participants experienced significantly greater reductions in affected BSA at week 8 with HP/TAZ (-36.0%) vs vehicle (-1.6%; P< .001). Larger proportions experienced clinically meaningful DLQI improvements at week 8 with HP/TAZ (64.2%) vs vehicle (47.4%; P< .05). More participants achieved a ≥2-grade improvement in plaque elevation and scaling with HP/TAZ vs vehicle (each comparison, P< .001). Serious adverse events and discontinuations due to treatment-emergent adverse events were rare.

CONCLUSIONS

In participants with plaque psoriasis and BSA involvement of 3% to 5%, HP/TAZ provided significantly improved effectiveness after 8 treatment weeks vs vehicle lotion, with clinically meaningful improvements in quality of life. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(8):829-836. doi:10.36849/JDD.6217.

Fixed-Combination Halobetasol Propionate and Tazarotene Lotion for Psoriasis in Patients With Skin of Color

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined topical psoriasis therapies in patients with skin of color. Fixed-combination halobetasol propionate (0.01%) and tazarotene (0.045%) lotion (HP/TAZ) was investigated in two phase 3, multicenter, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trials (NCT02462070; NCT02462122). This post hoc analysis evaluated HP/TAZ in subgroups of non-White and White participants, including Hispanic/Latino participants, from these trials.

METHODS

Adult participants were randomized (2:1) to receive HP/TAZ or vehicle lotion once daily for 8 weeks. Data were pooled and analyzed in non-mutually exclusive subgroups of self-identified non-White or White and Hispanic/Latino participants. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (≥2-grade improvement from baseline in investigator’s global assessment [IGA] and score of clear/almost clear), reduction from baseline in affected body surface area (BSA), and reduction in mean IGA × BSA. Safety was evaluated via treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs).

RESULTS

Of 418 participants, 60 and 358 self-identified as non-White and White, respectively; 115 of 418 participants self-identified as Hispanic/Latino. At week 8, a higher percentage of HP/TAZ-treated participants achieved treatment success vs vehicle (non-White, 34.4% vs 19.0%; White, 41.8% vs 8.7%; Hispanic/Latino, 39.3% vs 9.3%); rates for White and Hispanic/Latino participants were statistically significant. Compared with vehicle, HP/TAZ-treated participants in each subgroup experienced numerically greater reductions in affected BSA and IGA × BSA at week 8. The most common TEAEs were contact dermatitis, pruritus, nasopharyngitis, and application-site pain; discontinuations due to TEAEs were few.

CONCLUSIONS

HP/TAZ reduced disease severity in non-White, White, and Hispanic/Latino participants with psoriasis, with good tolerability and safety over 8 weeks of treatment. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(7):735-744. doi:10.36849/JDD.6158.

Once-Daily Halobetasol Propionate 0.01% Lotion for Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Phase 3 Analysis of Hispanic Participants

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory disease that may differ in prevalence and clinical presentation among patients from various racial and ethnic groups. Two phase 3 studies demonstrated efficacy and safety of halobetasol propionate (HP) 0.01% lotion in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (NCT02514577, NCT02515097). These post hoc analyses evaluated HP 0.01% lotion in Hispanic participants.

METHODS

Participants were randomized (2:1) to receive once-daily HP or vehicle lotion for 8 weeks, with a 4-week posttreatment follow-up. Post hoc efficacy assessments in Hispanic participants (HP, n=76; vehicle, n=43) included treatment success (≥2‑grade improvement in Investigator’s Global Assessment and score of ‘clear’ or ‘almost clear’), psoriasis signs, and affected body surface area (BSA). Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were evaluated.

RESULTS

At week 8, 38.8% of participants achieved treatment success with HP versus 10.3% on vehicle (P=0.001). HP‑treated participants achieved greater improvements in psoriasis signs, compared with vehicle (P<0.01 all). HP group had a greater reduction in affected BSA versus vehicle (P=0.001). Treatment-related TEAEs with HP were application site infection and dermatitis (n=1 each).

CONCLUSIONS

Once-daily HP 0.01% lotion was associated with significant reductions in disease severity in Hispanic participants with moderate-to-severe psoriasis, with good tolerability and safety over 8 weeks. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(3):252-258. doi:10.36849/JDD.5698.

Halobetasol Propionate 0.01%/Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion for Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis: Pooled Phase 3 Analysis of Lower Extremities

Background: Plaque psoriasis can occur in all body regions, with the trunk and extremities among the most commonly affected areas. A fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion demonstrated efficacy and safety in patients with moderate-to-severe localized plaque psoriasis. This analysis evaluated patients where a psoriatic target lesion was identified on the leg. Methods: In two phase 3, multicenter, double-blind studies, participants were randomized (2:1) to receive HP/TAZ or vehicle lotion once-daily for 8 weeks. This pooled, post hoc analysis included a subset of participants who had a leg target lesion (HP/TAZ, n=148; vehicle, n=71). Efficacy assessments included treatment success (≥2-grade improvement) in psoriasis signs (erythema, plaque elevation, scaling) on the leg target lesion, and overall treatment outcomes, including overall treatment success (≥2-grade improvement in Investigator's Global Assessment [IGA] score and score of clear/almost clear), affected Body Surface Area (BSA), and IGAxBSA composite score. Results: Psoriasis signs were reduced by week 8, with more HP/TAZ treated participants achieving treatment success for erythema (41.6%), plaque elevation (58.5%), and scaling (59.5%) on the leg compared with vehicle (12.5%, 19.2%, and 21.0%, respectively; P<0.001 all). Significantly more participants achieved overall treatment success at week 8 with HP/TAZ versus vehicle (36.4% vs 10.4%; P<0.001). The HP/TAZ group also had a greater mean reduction in affected BSA and IGAxBSA score versus vehicle (P<0.001, both). The most frequently reported treatment-related adverse event (incidence, ≥3%) with HP/TAZ was contact dermatitis. Conclusions: HP 0.01%/TAZ 0.045% lotion was associated with significant reductions in disease severity and good tolerability following 8 weeks of treatment in patients where a psoriatic target lesion was identified on the leg. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(4):389-396. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.4958.

Successful Management of a Black Male With Psoriasis and Dyspigmentation Treated With Halobetasol Propionate 0.01%/Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion: Case Report

Skin of color patients with psoriasis face unique challenges related to disease characteristics and treatment. Dyspigmentation, including postinflammatory hypo- and hyperpigmentation, more frequently and severely affects patients with skin of color and remains a challenge in psoriasis management. We present the case of a 58-year-old Black male with moderate psoriasis who was treated for 8 weeks with a fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion during a phase 3 study (NCT02462070). HP/TAZ was efficacious in this patient, whose Investigator&rsquo;s Global Assessment score decreased from 3 (moderate) at baseline to 1 (almost clear) within 4 weeks, with maintenance of & "almost clear"; through week 12 (4 weeks posttreatment). Affected body surface area decreased by 50% and quality of life greatly improved from baseline to week 8. The patient experienced dyspigmentation of the affected skin during the trial; hypopigmentation was primarily experienced from weeks 2-8, with the greatest degree at week 4. By week 12, the affected skin area had returned to normal, with only small regions of hyperpigmentation, primarily around the periphery of the lesion. These results indicate that HP/TAZ may be a treatment option for patients with skin of color, who are disproportionally affected by postinflammatory dyspigmentation. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(10):1000-1004. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5347.

Effectiveness comparison and incremental cost-per-responder analysis of calcipotriene 0.005%/betamethasone dipropionate 0.064% foam vs. halobetasol 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% lotion for plaque psoriasis: a matching-adjusted indirect comparative analysis

Background: The fixed-dose combination foam formulation of calcipotriene 0.005% plus betamethasone dipropionate 0.064% (Cal/BD) has demonstrated efficacy and a favorable safety profile for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Recently, a topical lotion of the combination of halobetasol 0.01% plus tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) was approved for treating adult plaque psoriasis. Currently, no head-to-head studies have compared Cal/BD foam with HP/TAZ lotion.Objective: Compare the effectiveness and drug incremental cost per responder (ICPR) of Cal/BD foam vs. HP/TAZ lotion in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.Methods: An anchor-based, matching-adjusted indirect comparison was conducted for PGA treatment success (Physician's Global Assessment of "clear" or "almost clear," [PGA 0/1] with at least a 2-point improvement) using individual patient data from 3 randomized clinical studies of Cal/BD foam and published data from 2 randomized, Phase 3 clinical studies of HP/TAZ lotion. The number needed to treat and ICPR were also calculated.Results: After reweighting of patients in the Cal/BD foam studies to match summary baseline characteristics of the HP/TAZ lotion study patients and anchoring to vehicle effect, 4 weeks of Cal/BD foam produced a significantly greater rate of treatment success than 8 weeks of HP/TAZ lotion treatment (51.4 vs. 30.7%; treatment difference = 20.7%, p < .001). The number needed to treat with Cal/BD foam was also less than HP/TAZ lotion (1.9 vs. 3.3). Using US wholesale acquisition costs and equal weekly consumption rates, the incremental cost per PGA 0/1 responder relative to vehicle for Cal/BD foam was $3,988 and was 37% lower compared with HP/TAZ lotion ($6,294).Conclusions: The indirect comparison analyses showed that Cal/BD foam was associated with a greater rate of treatment success, lower ICPR, and quicker treatment response than HP/TAZ lotion in adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

Halobetasol 0.01%/Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion for Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis: Pooled Phase 3 Analysis of Males and Females

BACKGROUND

Previous results from two phase 3 studies demonstrated efficacy and safety of fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in participants with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. This post hoc analysis evaluated sex-specific efficacy and safety of HP/TAZ lotion.

METHODS

In two randomized, double-blind, phase 3 studies, participants were randomized (2:1) to receive HP/TAZ or vehicle lotion once daily for 8 weeks. Male and female participants were evaluated separately in this pooled analysis. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (at least 2‑grade improvement in Investigator's Global Assessment [IGA] score and score of clear/almost clear), impact on individual signs of psoriasis, and affected Body Surface Area (BSA).

RESULTS

The analysis included 272 males (HP/TAZ, n=175; vehicle, n=97) and 146 females (HP/TAZ, n=101; vehicle, n=45). Significantly more participants achieved overall treatment success at week 8 with HP/TAZ versus vehicle in both male (38.4% vs 9.8%) and female (44.5% vs 9.9%) subgroups (P&lt;0.001, both). Erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling were also reduced by week 8 in both males and females, with significantly more HP/TAZ-treated participants achieving at least 2‑grade improvement in each sign of psoriasis than vehicle-treated participants (P&lt;0.001 each, both groups). Mean reductions in affected BSA were significantly greater with HP/TAZ versus vehicle lotion in both males and females (P&le;0.001, both). The most frequent treatment-related adverse events were contact dermatitis, pruritis, and application site pain (each 4.0%) in females and contact dermatitis (7.6%) in males.

CONCLUSION

HP/TAZ lotion was highly effective and safe in both males and females with moderate-to-severe psoriasis over 8 weeks of once-daily use. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(5): doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5021.

Lichen Myxedematosus: Case Report and Review of Literature

Lichen myxedematosus (LM) is an idiopathic cutaneous mucinosis, commonly described as localized scleromyxedema. In contrast to scleromyxedema, there is typically no systemic involvement. Treatment options are limited and spontaneous resolution has been reported. We present the case of a 66-year-old Hispanic male referred by his primary care physician for evaluation of asymptomatic dark spots on his trunk and extremities present for about one-year. Physical exam revealed smooth, brown hyperpigmented papules coalescing into plaques on the trunk. Multiple well-demarcated oval dark brown plaques measuring 3 cm in size were located on the upper back, peri-umbilical area, bilateral lower extremities, and buttocks. A diagnosis of lichen myxedematosus was made based on histologic features observed in the dermis. There are 5 subtypes of LM: a discrete papular form, acral persistent papular mucinosis, self-healing papular mucinosis, papular mucinosis of infancy, and a pure nodular form. Occasional patients with LM have atypical features or features intermediate between scleromyxedema and localized LM. We present a case of atypical LM with mixed features of the different subtypes. Herein we will review the varied clinical presentations of LM and highlight the distinguishing features of scleromyxedema. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(3): 320-322 doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.4864.

Halobetasol propionate for the management of psoriasis

The use of superpotent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) for the treatment of psoriasis is widely practiced, especially for expedient lesion resolution. However, their continued use in managing this chronic condition is limited because of labelling restrictions, concerns of side effects, and a paucity of data to support long-term management strategies. Halobetasol propionate (HP) is an effective short-term superpotent TCS. A novel HP lotion 0.01% formulation has been developed using a polymeric matrix technology that allows for uniform delivery of optimally sized particles onto the skin surface. The polymeric matrix and emulsion help to keep the skin hydrated and provide more efficient delivery of halobetasol into the epidermis.

Halobetasol 0.01% Lotion in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis of the Lower Extremities

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease that varies widely in its clinical expression. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the mainstay of treatment. Long-term safety remains a concern, limiting use, and posttreatment flare is common. Recently data were reported on the use of halobetasol propionate (HP) 0.01% lotion in moderate or severe localized plaque psoriasis, once-daily for 8 weeks. In addition, a 2-week label-restricted study reported comparable efficacy to HP 0.05% cream. Data evaluating efficacy in specific locations has not been reported and while psoriasis commonly affects lower extremities treatment can be more problematic and burden of disease heightened. Objective: To investigate the efficacy of a once-daily application of HP 0.01% lotion in comparison with its vehicle in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis of the lower extremities. Methods: A post hoc analysis of two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled phase 3 studies in moderate or severe psoriasis. Subjects (N=234) where the leg was identified as the target lesion were randomized (2:1 ratio) to receive HP 0.01% lotion or vehicle, once-daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline) in each individual sign of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion (leg) and overall treatment outcomes including at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score, and ‘clear’ or ‘almost clear’, improvement in Body Surface Area (BSA) and reduction in IGAxBSA. Quality of Life (QoL) was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) at baseline, week 4, 8, and 12. Results: At the end of the 8-week treatment period, more than half of subjects had achieved treatment success, with 52.1%, 55.5%, and 58.2% of subjects achieving at least a 2-grade reduction in erythema, plaque elevation and scaling severity on the leg, compared with 15.7% and 22.9%, and 22.2% of those treated with vehicle (P<0.001). In addition, overall treatment success (IGA) was achieved in 37.1% of these subjects who had been treated with HP 0.01% lotion compared with 8.4% treated with vehicle (P<0.001); with a corresponding 34.2% reduction in baseline BSA and 50.5% change in mean baseline IGAxBSA (both P<0.001 versus vehicle). Overall, a clinically relevant improvement in QoL was achieved by week 4; by week 8 37.7% of subjects where the leg was the target lesion had a clinically meaningful improvement in disease severity (IGAxBSA-75). Conclusions: In conclusion, halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion provides statistically significant efficacy following 8 weeks’ therapy compared with vehicle in subjects where the leg was identified as the target lesion, with clinically relevant improvements in QoL and more than a third of subjects achieving a clinically meaningful result. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(10):1029-1036.

Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of a Halobetasol 0.01% /Tazarotene 0.045% Fixed Combination in the Treatment of Severe Localized Plaque Psoriasis: Post Hoc Analysis of Two Phase III Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: The use of topical therapy is a key component in the management of almost all psoriasis patients. Topicals are considered first-line therapy for mild disease and are having an increasing role in moderate or severe psoriasis as an integral part of combination therapy. Halobetasol has been shown be effective in moderate or severe localized plaque psoriasis, and tazarotene affords important effects on epidermal hyperproliferation that may be important in more severe disease. Objective: To investigate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of a once-daily application of a fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in comparison with its vehicle in patients with severe localized plaque psoriasis (as defined by an Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) of 4 and Body Surface Area (BSA) of 3%-12%. Methods: Post hoc analysis of two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled phase 3 studies. Sixty-two patients with severe localized psoriasis (mean BSA 7.4) randomized (2:1) to receive HP/TAZ lotion or vehicle, once-daily for 8 weeks, with a 4-week posttreatment follow-up. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in the IGA score and a score of ‘clear’ or ‘almost clear’), impact on individual signs of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion, BSA, reduction in mean baseline IGAxBSA and achievement of a clinically meaningful response (number of patients who achieved at least a 75% improvement in IGAxBSA). Safety and treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were evaluated throughout. Results: By week 8, 34.8% of patients were treatment successes compared with 0.0% on vehicle (P=0.004). HP/TAZ lotion was also significantly superior in reducing psoriasis signs and symptoms and improving BSA. At week 8, 47.4% (erythema), 66.4% (plaque elevation), and 65.4% (scaling) subjects achieved at least a 2-grade improvement, compared with 14.0% (P=0.016), 14.8% (P<0.001) and 14.7% (P<0.001) respectively with vehicle. Patients treated with HP/TAZ lotion achieved a 32.8% reduction in baseline mean BSA, compared with a 39.6% increase with vehicle (P=0.013). HP/TAZ lotion achieved a statistically significant superior reduction in mean IGAxBSA compared to vehicle from week 2 (P<0.001 versus vehicle). By week 8, almost half of the patients treated with HP/TAZ lotion achieved a clinically meaningful response (IGAxBSA-75) and a 52.9% reduction in mean IGAxBSA score compared with a 17.5% increase in those patients treated with vehicle (P<0.001). One patient (2.6%) treated with HP/TAZ lotion discontinued due to AE. Most frequently reported treatment related AEs were application site pain (7.9%), contact dermatitis (5.3%) and pruritus (5.3%). Conclusions: HP/TAZ lotion provides significantly greater efficacy than vehicle that is both rapid and sustained, in patients with severe localized plaque psoriasis, with good tolerability and safety over 8 weeks’ once-daily use. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(10):1012-1018.

Halobetasol 0.01%/Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Maintenance of Therapeutic Effect After Cessation of Therapy

BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease that varies widely in its clinical expression. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the mainstay of treatment. Long-term safety remains a concern, limiting use and recurrence is common. Tazarotene has also been shown to be effective in psoriasis, with efficacy maintained several weeks posttreatment. Fixed combination therapy with TCS and tazarotene may improve psoriasis signs and maintain efficacy between treatment sessions. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the maintenance of effect posttreatment with a once-daily application of halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in comparison with vehicle in patients with moderate or severe plaque psoriasis. METHODS: Two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase 3 studies in moderate or severe psoriasis (N=418). Patients randomized (2:1) to receive HP/TAZ lotion or vehicle, once-daily for 8 weeks with a 4 week posttreatment follow-up. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in the IGA score, and ‘clear’ or ‘almost clear’), impact on individual signs of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion, and maintenance of improvements in Body Surface Area (BSA), IGAxBSA and clinically meaningful benefit (IGAxBSA-75). RESULTS: At week 8, 40.7% of patients achieved treatment success with HP/TAZ lotion, compared with 9.9% treated with vehicle (P<0.001). Four weeks posttreatment, 33.3% of patients achieved treatment success. Two thirds of patients (63%) who were treatment successes at week 8 remained treatment successes posttreatment. In addition, up to 20% of patients who were not treatment successes at week 8 became treatment successes by the end of the study. Three-quarters of patients maintained BSA improvements or reported further reductions in BSA that seemed to be unrelated to baseline BSA severity. At the end of the 4 week posttreatment period, patients who had been treated with HP/TAZ lotion achieved a 46.6% reduction in IGAxBSA, compared with 7.9% on vehicle. 41.7% of patients achieved a clinically meaningful effect at week 8 and this was maintained posttreatment. LIMITATIONS: The studies only had a 4 week follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, HP 0.01%/TAZ 0.045% lotion provides effective maintenance of efficacy over a 4 week posttreatment period.

Two Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group Comparison Studies of a Novel Foam Formulation of Halobetasol Propionate, 0.05% vs Its Vehicle in Adult Subjects With Plaque Psoriasis

BACKGROUND: A novel foam formulation of halobetasol propionate, 0.05% (HBP-Foam) has been developed to treat plaque psoriasis in patients who prefer a thermostable topical foam with low application shear that allows for easier coverage over large and/or hirsute areas than existing formulations. OBJECTIVE: To determine the safety and effectiveness of HBP-Foam in subjects with plaque psoriasis. METHODS: Two randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical studies were conducted in 560 adult subjects with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Subjects applied the assigned test article to all psoriatic plaques twice daily for 14 days. The key efficacy measures were the proportion of subjects with “treatment success,” defined as those subjects that achieved a score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) and at least a two-grade improvement compared to baseline for the Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) and for the clinical signs of psoriasis (plaque elevation, scaling, and erythema) as well as pruritus. Safety measurements included adverse events and local skin reactions in the treatment area. RESULTS: HBP-Foam was statistically superior to vehicle in achieving “Treatment Success” in 25.3% and 30.7% vs 3.9% and 7.4% (P<0.001) in Studies 1 and 2, respectively. Pruritus scores statistically improved by over 30% in HBP-Foam treated subjects. In addition, these subjects experienced a significant reduction in the clinical signs of psoriasis (plaque elevation, scaling, and erythema). In contrast, in the vehicle groups the decrease in psoriasis-related signs was generally not observed. Safety outcomes were unremarkable and similar in both the HBP-Foam and vehicle treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of HBP-Foam in the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Furthermore, this novel foam formulation has demonstrable for its ease of application over large and/or hairy treatment areas. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration: NCT02742441 NCT02368210

Efficacy of a Once-Daily Fixed Combination Halobetasol (0.01%) and Tazarotene (0.045%) Lotion in the Treatment of Localized Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis

Recently, clinical data on 8 weeks’ once-daily treatment of localized moderate-to-severe psoriasis with a novel fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion were published.1,2 HP/TAZ lotion was significantly more effective than individual active ingredients or vehicle, based on improvements in Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA), body surface area (BSA) involvement, and signs and symptoms of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion as well as a synergistic benefit over individual active ingredients, and good tolerability.

Assessing the Synergistic Effect of a Fixed Combination Halobetasol Propionate 0.01% and Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion in Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis

Background: Fixed combinations are commonplace in dermatology, providing significant efficacy and tolerability benefits. In some cases, two active ingredients complement each other providing a cumulative or additive effect. In rarer cases, a synergistic effect may be seen where the sum of the two active ingredients combined action is greater than the sum of the efficacy of the constituent parts. Objective: To determine whether a novel halobetasol propionate 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) fixed combination lotion provides a synergistic effect in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Methods: Post hoc analysis of 212 patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis randomized (2:2:2:1) to HP/TAZ lotion, HP, TAZ or vehicle once-daily for 8 weeks, with a 4-week posttreatment follow-up. Treatment success was evaluated based on two outcomes: percent of patients achieving at least a 2-grade improvement in Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) and IGA score equating to ‘clear’ or ‘almost clear’; and percent change from baseline in the IGAxbody surface area (BSA) score, an alternative to assessing response to therapy that is more sensitive to area change than the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI). In addition, a clinically meaningful outcome was reported in patients who achieved a 75% reduction in IGAxBSA. Synergy was established when the benefit of combination HP/TAZ lotion was greater than benefit of HP plus TAZ, with a ratio (HP/TAZ divided by HP+TAZ) >1.0. Results: HP/TAZ lotion was synergistic at week 8, and four weeks posttreatment. At week 8, treatment success with HP/TAZ lotion relative to vehicle was 42.8% compared with 32.5% for HP plus TAZ (ratio 1.3); and percent change from baseline in IGAxBSA score relative to vehicle was 51.6% compared with 40.6% for HP plus TAZ (ratio 1.3). At week 12, treatment success with HP/TAZ lotion relative to vehicle was 31.3% compared with 20.0% for HP plus TAZ (ratio 1.6). Percent change from baseline in IGAxBSA score relative to vehicle was 47.3% compared with 34.2% for HP plus TAZ (ratio 1.4). HP/TAZ lotion also provided synergistic benefits in terms of achieving a clinically meaningful outcome, with a ratio of 1.3 and 2.0 at weeks 8 and 12. Conclusions: Halobetasol propionate 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) fixed combination lotion provides a synergistic benefit in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. In addition, by combining two agents into one once-daily formulation, this novel formulation reduces the number of product applications and may help patient adherence. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(3):279-284.

Safety and efficacy of halobetasol propionate lotion 0.01% in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis: a pooled analysis of 2 phase 3 studies

Potent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are the mainstay of psoriasis treatment. Safety concerns have limited use to 2 to 4 weeks. The objective of our study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of once-daily halobetasol propionate (HP) lotion 0.01% in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis through 2 multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled phase 3 studies (N=430). Participants were randomized (2:1) to HP lotion 0.01% or vehicle once daily for 8 weeks, followed by 4 weeks of follow-up. The primary efficacy assessment was treatment success (at least a 2-grade improvement in baseline investigator global assessment [IGA] score and a score of 0 [clear] or 1 [almost clear]). Additional assessments included improvement in psoriasis signs and symptoms, body surface area (BSA), and a composite score of IGA×BSA. Safety and treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) were evaluated throughout. We found that HP lotion 0.01% demonstrated statistically significant superiority over vehicle as early as week 2 and also was superior in reducing psoriasis signs and symptoms and BSA involvement.

Halobetasol and Tazarotene: Further Defining the Role of a Unique Fixed Combination Topical Lotion in Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis

Background: A unique fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion has been shown to be effective in psoriasis using Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) tools to assess erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling. However, these do not consider changes in Body Surface Area (BSA). The IGAxBSA composite tool is a simple, effective, validated alternative for measuring improvement in psoriasis severity. It correlates well with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and demonstrates sensitivity to changes from baseline in patients with both mild and moderately severe disease. Objective: To further define the role of a fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis using the IGAxBSA composite tool. Methods: Post hoc analysis of 212 patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis randomized (2:2:2:1) to HP/TAZ lotion, HP, TAZ, or vehicle once-daily for 8 weeks, with a 4-week posttreatment follow-up. Efficacy assessments using the validated IGAxBSA composite tool. Results: HP/TAZ lotion demonstrated statistically significant superiority at week 8 (versus TAZ and vehicle) and week 12 (versus HP, TAZ, and vehicle). By week 8, HP/TAZ lotion achieved a 63.5% reduction in mean IGAxBSA composite score (P<0.001 versus TAZ and vehicle), that was sustained four weeks posttreatment (P<0.001 versus TAZ and vehicle and P=0.003 versus HP). A 25% and 50% improvement in IGAxBSA was achieved within 1.9 and 4.6 weeks, respectively, and 47.5% of patients achieved IGAxBSA-75 by week 8. Limitations: This post hoc analysis was limited to patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis with IGA ≥3 and BSA involvement (3%-12%). Conclusions: HP/TAZ lotion was associated with significant and rapid reductions in disease severity as assessed by the IGAxBSA composite tool. The addition of tazarotene affords sustained benefits posttreatment. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(12):1290-1296.

Safety and Efficacy of a Once-Daily Halobetasol Propionate 0.01% Lotion in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Results of Two Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the mainstay of psoriasis treatment; long-term safety concerns limiting consecutive use of potent TCS to 2-4 weeks.

OBJECTIVE

Investigate safety and efficacy of halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

Two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled phase 3 studies (N=430). Subjects randomized (2:1) to halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion or vehicle once-daily for 8 weeks, 4-week posttreatment follow-up. Primary efficacy assessment: treatment success (at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in Investigator Global Assessment [IGA] score and 'clear' or 'almost clear') at week 8. Safety and treatment emergent adverse events (AEs) evaluated throughout.

RESULTS

Halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion demonstrated statistically significant superiority over vehicle as early as week 2. By week 8, 36.5% (Study 1) and 38.4% (Study 2) of subjects were treatment successes compared with 8.1% and 12.0% on vehicle (P less than 0.001). Halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion was also superior in reducing psoriasis signs and symptoms, body surface area (BSA), and improving quality of life. Halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion was well-tolerated with no treatment-related AEs greater than 1%.

LIMITATIONS

Study did not include subjects with BSA greater than 12.

CONCLUSIONS

Halobetasol propionate 0.01% lotion was associated with significant reductions in the severity of the clinical signs of psoriasis, without the safety concerns of a longer treatment course. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(10):1062-1069.

Safety and Efficacy of a Fixed Combination Halobetasol and Tazarotene Lotion in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: A Pooled Analysis of Two Phase 3 Studies

BACKGROUND

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the mainstay of psoriasis treatment. Safety concerns may limit use. Combination with tazarotene may optimize efficacy and minimize safety and tolerability concerns.

OBJECTIVE

Investigate safety and efficacy of halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

Two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled phase 3 studies (N=418). Subjects randomized (2:1) to HP/TAZ lotion or vehicle once-daily for 8 weeks, 4-week follow-up. Primary efficacy assessment: treatment success (at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in IGA score and 'clear' or 'almost clear'). Safety and treatment emergent AEs evaluated throughout.

RESULTS

HP/TAZ lotion demonstrated statistically significant superiority over vehicle as early as week 2 (P equals 0.002). By week 8, 40.6% of subjects were treatment successes compared with 9.9% on vehicle (P less than 0.001). A third of subjects remained treatment successes post-treatment. HP/TAZ lotion was also superior in reducing psoriasis signs and symptoms, and Body Surface Area (BSA) involvement. Most frequently reported treatment related AEs were contact dermatitis (6.3%), application site pain (2.6%), and pruritus (2.2%).

LIMITATIONS

No data were collected beyond the 4-week follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

HP/TAZ lotion provides synergistic efficacy that is both rapid and sustained, with good tolerability and safety over 8 weeks use. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(8):855-861.

Rapid Onset of Action in Patients With Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis With Halobetasol 0.01%/Tazarotene 0.045% Fixed Combination

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic condition often managed with topical therapy. Patients have high expectations about the speed at which improvement is achieved, which then can have a marked impact on the patient's adherence to treatment. Recently, clinical data on a new fixed combination of halobetasol and tazarotene (HP/TAZ) have been presented. HP/TAZ lotion was statistically more effective than individual active ingredients or its vehicle, with a predictable safety profile.

OBJECTIVES

Here we review the efficacy and tolerability data with a specific focus on the first two weeks of therapy.

METHODS

Multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase 2 study in moderate or severe psoriasis (N=212). Subjects randomized (2:2:2:1 ratio) to receive halobetasol 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ), individual active ingredients (HP or TAZ), or vehicle, once-daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in the IGA score and a score of 'clear' or 'almost clear'), and impact on individual signs of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion.

RESULTS

As early as 2 weeks, HP/TAZ lotion demonstrated statistically significant superiority for treatment success over vehicle (P equals 0.047) and TAZ (P equals 0.029). By week 2, 47.5% of patients were 'mild', 'almost clear' or 'clear' compared with 33.3%, 16.9%, and 12.9% of patients treated with HP, TAZ, or vehicle, respectively; plaque elevation and scaling were significantly improved compared with HP, TAZ, or vehicle, and erythema was significantly improved compared with TAZ. Improvements in baseline itching (45.6%), dryness (42.2%), burning/stinging (55.9%) with HP/TAZ lotion at 2 weeks were similar to those seen with HP, and greater than that achieved with TAZ (30.8% [P equals 0.099], 35.4%, and 13.3%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The HP/TAZ fixed combination lotion provides rapid relief of psoriasis symptoms, with apparent benefits over both HP and TAZ by week 2. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(8):863-868.

Halobetasol 0.01%/Tazarotene 0.045% Lotion in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Maintenance of Therapeutic Effect After Cessation of Therapy

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease that varies widely in its clinical expression. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the mainstay of treatment. Long-term safety remains a concern, limiting use, and posttreatment flare is common. Tazarotene has also been shown to be effective in psoriasis, with efficacy maintained several weeks posttreatment. Fixed combination therapy with TCS and tazarotene may improve psoriasis signs and minimize posttreatment flare or rebound.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the maintenance of effect posttreatment with a once-daily application of halobetasol propionate 0.01%/tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in comparison with its active ingredients and vehicle in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

Multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase 2 study in moderate or severe psoriasis (N=212). Patients randomized (2:2:2:1 ratio) to receive HP/TAZ, individual active ingredients, or vehicle, once-daily for 8 weeks with a 4-week posttreatment follow-up. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in the IGA score, and 'clear' or 'almost clear'), and impact on individual signs of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion.

RESULTS

At the end of the 4-week posttreatment period, 38.2% of patients who had been treated with HP/TAZ were treatment successes; compared with 21.0%, 12.8% and 6.9% of patients who had been treated with HP (P=0.042), TAZ (P=0.004), or vehicle (P=0.002). HP/TAZ lotion was also superior in maintaining reductions in psoriasis signs of erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling at the target lesion. At the end of the 4-week posttreatment period, 49.1%, 54.5%, and 54.5% of patients, respectively, were treatment successes: compared with 38.7% (P=0.26), 48.4% (P=0.51), and 48.4% (P=0.51) of patients who had been treated with HP; 29.8% (P=0.049), 31.9% (P=0.022), and 23.4% (P=0.001) who had been treated with TAZ; and 13.8% (P=0.002), 20.7% (P=0.003), and 20.7% (P=0.003) who had been treated with vehicle. Side effects were minimal and tended to resolve during the posttreatment period.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, HP 0.01%/TAZ 0.045% lotion provides synergistic efficacy following 8 weeks' therapy that is sustained after a 4-week posttreatment period. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(7):723-726.

Effect of Different Skin Penetration Promoters in Halobetasol Propionate Permeation and Retention in Human Skin

Halobetasol propionate (HB) is a potent synthetic corticosteroid used against inflammatory skin diseases, such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis, among others. The aim of this study is to define how the presence of different skin penetration enhancers (nonane, menthone, limonene, azone, carene, decanol, linoleic acid and cetiol) affects the penetration and retention in skin of HB. To determine drug penetration through skin, 5% of each promoter was used in an ex vivo system with human skin on Franz cells. The results showed that the highest permeation occurs in the presence of menthone, followed by nonane. Permeation parameters were determined. The in vivo test was assessed, and the formulation containing HB-menthone presented better anti-inflammatory efficacy. These results are useful to generate a specific treatment according to each patient's needs, and the inflammatory characteristics of the disease.

Two Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group Comparison Studies of a Novel Enhanced Lotion Formulation of Halobetasol Propionate, 0.05% Versus Its Vehicle in Adult Subjects With Plaque Psoriasis

<p>BACKGROUND: A novel lotion formulation of halobetasol propionate, 0.05% (HBP Lotion) with enhanced vehicle characteristics of a cream while preserving the ease of use and cosmetic elegance of a lotion has been developed to treat plaque psoriasis.

OBJECTIVE

Determine the safety and effectiveness of HBP Lotion in patients with plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

Two prospective, randomized, vehicle-controlled clinical studies were conducted in 443 adult subjects with moderate-severe plaque psoriasis. Subjects applied the test article to psoriatic plaques within the treatment area twice daily for 14 days. Efficacy data are based upon treatment "success" defined as those subjects that achieved scores of 0=clear or 1=almost clear with at least a two-grade improvement relative to baseline for an Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) and clinical signs (plaque elevation, erythema, scaling). Safety data are presented as adverse events and local skin reactions.

RESULTS

After two weeks of treatment with HBP Lotion, 44.5% of the HBP Lotion treated subjects in each study achieved (a) treatment "success" (ie, an IGA score of 0=clear or 1=almost clear and >2 grade improvement compared to baseline) and (b) a notable reduction in plaque elevation, erythema, scaling, and pruritus. In contrast, only 6.3% and 7.1% of VEH subjects in Studies 1 and 2, respectively, achieved treatment success and the reduction of disease related signs was materially lower. Statistically, at day 15 in both Phase 3 studies, treatment success with HBP Lotion was superior to VEH (P less than 0.001). From a safety perspective the outcomes were in general unremarkable with similar findings in the HBP Lotion and VEH treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of HBP Lotion in the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Furthermore, this novel HBP lotion formulation is also distinguished by its moisturization qualities and ease of use.</p> <p><em>J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(3):234-240.</em></p>.

A Phase 2, Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Vehicle Controlled Clinical Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of a Halobetasol/Tazarotene Fixed Combination in the Treatment of Plaque Psoriasis

<p>BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease that varies widely in its clinical expression. Treatment options focus on relieving symptoms, reducing inflammation, induration, and scaling, and controlling the extent of the disease. Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment, however long-term safety remains a concern, particularly with the more potent formulations. Combination therapy with a corticosteroid and tazarotene may improve psoriasis signs at a lower corticosteroid concentration providing a superior safety profile.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of a once-daily application of a fixed combination halobetasol propionate 0.01% and tazarotene 0.045% (HP/TAZ) lotion in comparison with its monads and vehicle in subjects with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

Multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase 2 study in moderate or severe psoriasis (N=212). Subjects randomized (2:2:2:1 ratio) to receive HP/TAZ, individual monads, or vehicle, once-daily for 8 weeks. Efficacy assessments included treatment success (defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from baseline in the IGA score and a score of 'Clear' or 'Almost Clear'), and impact on individual signs of psoriasis (erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling) at the target lesion. Safety and treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were evaluated throughout.

RESULTS

HP/TAZ lotion demonstrated statistically significant superiority over vehicle as early as 2 weeks. At week 8, 52.5% of subjects had treatment success compared with 33.3%, 18.6%, and 9.7% in the HP (P=0.033), TAZ (P less than 0.001), and vehicle (P less than 0.001) groups, respectively. HP/TAZ lotion was superior to its monads and vehicle in reducing the psoriasis signs of erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling at the target lesion. At week 8, a 2-grade improvement in IGA was achieved by 54.2% of subjects for erythema, 67.8% for plaque elevation, and 64.4% for scaling. Most frequently reported TEAEs were application site reactions, and were more likely associated with the tazarotene component. Side effects such as skin atrophy were rare.

CONCLUSIONS

HP/TAZ lotion was consistently more effective than its monads or vehicle in achieving treatment success and reducing psoriasis signs of erythema, plaque elevation, and scaling at the target lesion. Safety data were consistent with the known safety profile of halobetasol propionate and tazarotene, and did not reveal any new safety concerns with the combination product.</p> <p><em>J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(3):197-204.</em></p>.

Halobetasol Propionate Lotion, 0.05% Provides Superior Hydration Compared to Halobetasol Propionate Cream, 0.05% in a Double-Blinded Study of Occlusivity and Hydration

BACKGROUND

This study measured skin hydration and occlusivity of two test products [halobetasol propionate lotion, 0.05% (HBP Lotion) and Ultravate® (halobetasol propionate) cream, 0.05% (HBP Cream)] at 2, 4, and 6 hours after application to skin test sites previously challenged by dry shaving, which was performed to compromise the integrity of the stratum corneum barrier.

METHODS

Trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), an indicator of skin barrier function, was measured using cyberDERM, inc. RG-1 evaporimeter. Skin hydration was evaluated using IBS SkiCon-200 conductance meter. Test products were applied bilaterally on dry-shaved sites on the volar forearm sites, according to a randomization scheme, with two test sites untreated to serve as "dry-shaved" controls. TEWL and conductance were measured at 2, 4, and 6 hours post-treatment.

RESULTS

HBP Lotion displayed a significant increase in skin hydration at 2, 4, and 6 hours post-treatment compared to the baseline values and dry-shaved controls (each, P less than 0.001). However, HBP Cream produced statistically significant increased skin hydration only after 6 hours (P less than 0.05). HBP Lotion was significantly more effective than HBP Cream in increasing skin hydration at 2 and 4 hours post-treatment (each, P less than 0.001), and had a directional advantage (not statistically significant) at 6 hours. Neither test product had a significant occlusive effect as measured by TEWL at 2, 4, and 6 hours post-application.

CONCLUSION

Both formulations of HBP (Lotion and Cream) contributed to skin moisturization, as measured by skin conductance. HBP Lotion produced a significantly more rapid onset and higher level of moisturization at 2 and 4 hours post-application compared to HBP Cream. The TEWL results indicate that neither HBP Lotion nor HBP Cream provided any significant occlusivity to the skin. <p><em>J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(2):140-144.</em></p>.

Discoid lupus erythematosus of the vulva

Genital involvement is a rare manifestation in discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and there are few reports on vulvar clinical features. We describe a 41-year old Caucasian woman with bilateral vulvar DLE. Although vulvar lesions in lupus are probably more common than is realized, the present report is the first case of genital DLE documented in a female.

Pruritic eruption on the chest

The fact that this patient's rash was limited to his chest provided an important diagnostic clue.

Uptake and biological effects of synthetic glucocorticoids in common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

Uptake and biological effects of synthetic glucocorticoids (GCs) were analyzed using common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Fish were exposed to clobetasol propionate (CP) or clobetasone butyrate (CB) individually or in mixture at 1 μg L(-1) for 21 days. Bioconcentration factor (BCF) of CB was calculated as 100, and BCF of CP was less than 16. No effects were found in fish erythrocyte and leukocyte numbers and serum glucose levels after exposure to the selected GCs. On the other hand, serum concentrations of free amino acids significantly increased in GC-exposed groups. Thus, exposures to synthetic GCs at relatively low concentrations seemed to cause enhancement of protein degradation and subsequent increase of serum free amino acids without a corresponding increase in serum glucose levels, an effect which might be related to partial induction of gluconeogenesis by GC.

Effects of Calcipotriol Cream and Ointment, Clobetasol Cream and Ointment and Tretinoin Cream on the Erythemogenicity of UVB

Various studies have shown the blocking effects of topical agents on UVB penetration, which can be used in combination with phototherapy. In this study, the photoprotective effects of 0.005% calcipotriol, 0.05% clobetasol-17-propionate, and 0.1% tretinoin, which can be used in combination with broad-band UVB, were investigated in an in vivo test. In a study group of 20 patients, phototests were performed to determine minimal erythema doses (MED) and the tests were repeated with thin (0.1 cc/25 cm2) and thick (0.3 cc/25 cm2) calcipotriol, clobetasol-17-propionate, and tretinoin in cream forms and sunscreen. After determining the MED, the test was repeated in another 20 patients with thin and thick calcipotriol and clobetasol-17-propionate in both cream and ointment forms and sunscreen. MED was increased with thin and thick applications of all agents. Moreover, the photoprotective effects of each agent increased with their thick applications compared with thin ones. The application of calcipotriol cream and ointment, clobetasol cream and ointment, and tretinoin cream, all of which can block UVB, is not recommended just before phototherapy.

Disseminated porokeratosis of Mibelli: A case report

Porokeratosis is a disorder of clonal hyperproliferation of keratinocytes with several different clinical manifestations. Cutaneous lesions vary in their appearance and distribution. All variants share the distinguishing cornoid lamella on histopathological examination. We present an unusual case of disseminated porokeratosis of Mibelli in an immunocompetent patient.

Effects of steroidal and non-steroidal antiphlogistic drugs on eicosanoid synthesis in irritated skin: studies with the isolated perfused bovine udder

Using the isolated perfused bovine udder as an in-vitro model of skin inflammation, the effects of topically administered arachidonic acid on prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis have been shown previously. In this study, the effects of indometacin (indomethacin) and clobetasol-17-propionate (administered topically) as well as flunixin meglumine and meloxicam (administered via the perfusion fluid) have been studied. Compared with controls, arachidonic acid caused a significant increase in the dermal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and peptidoleukotriene (LTC4/D4/E4) concentration. Topical treatment with indometacin (1.6 mg cm−2) and clobetasol-17-propionate (90 μg cm−2), which were administered 60 min before arachidonic acid administration, inhibited the inflammatory reaction. Flunixin meglumine (1 μg mL−1 perfusion fluid) was administered 30 min after and meloxicam (3 μg mL−1 perfusion fluid) was administered 60 min before arachidonic acid application. Three hours after arachidonic acid administration, a significant inhibition of PGE2 synthesis was induced by flunixin. In contrast, meloxicam showed only a slight effect. The effect of flunixin was comparable with in-vivo results. It is known from animal studies that anti-inflammatory effects of meloxicam are obvious within up to 6 h after treatment. Therefore, the incomplete effect of meloxicam may be explained pharmacokinetically. In conclusion, the described in-vitro model seems to be suitable for studies of pharmacological effects on eicosanoid synthesis in the skin.

A randomized, investigator‐masked clinical evaluation of the efficacy and safety of clobetasol propionate 0.05% shampoo and tar blend 1% shampoo in the treatment of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis

The clinical benefit of currently available tar blend shampoos for the treatment of scalp psoriasis is restricted due to their limited efficacy, low cosmetic appeal and potential for carcinogenicity. This 4-week multicentre, randomized, parallel-group, investigator-masked study included 162 subjects and aimed to compare the efficacy, safety and cosmetic acceptability of clobetasol propionate 0.05% shampoo versus a currently marketed tar blend 1% shampoo in subjects with moderate to severe scalp psoriasis. Clobetasol propionate shampoo was superior to tar blend shampoo with respect to all efficacy variables tested (p<0.001): Total and Global Severity Score; erythema; plaque thickening; desquamation; pruritus; total scalp area involved; and the subject's global assessment of clinical improvement. Both treatments were safe and well-tolerated. Furthermore, more subjects indicated that clobetasol propionate shampoo was more cosmetically acceptable than tar blend shampoo. Clobetasol propionate 0.05% shampoo is a good alternative to tar blend shampoo in the treatment of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis.

The efficacy of three class I topical synthetic corticosteroids, fluocinonide 0.1% cream, clobetasol 0.05% cream and halobetasol 0.05% cream: a Scholtz-Dumas bioassay comparison

BACKGROUND

This study compared the efficacy of a novel, topical class I synthetic, 0.10% fluocinonide corticosteroid with two other class I corticosteroids and placebo for the treatment of plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

A 0.5 gram dose of fluocinonide 0.1% cream, clobetasol propionate 0.05% cream, halobetasol propionate 0.05% cream, and placebo ointment were applied to test sites on one psoriatic plaque per patient (n=5). Test sites were outlined according to the Scholtz-Dumas bioassay. Test sites were assessed by a blinded evaluator (1 = psoriasis worsened to 5 = psoriasis clear or almost clear), cleaned and medications were reapplied on days 3, 5, 7, 10 and 12.

RESULTS & CONCLUSION

The three class I corticosteroid products were comparably effective, numerically and statistically, in clearing the psoriatic plaques. Upon completion of treatment, 60-80% of active-treated sites were clear or almost clear of psoriasis compared to zero with the placebo.

Eumovate (clobetasone butyrate) 0.05% cream with its moisturizing emollient base has better healing properties than hydrocortisone 1% cream: a study in nickel-induced contact dermatitis

BACKGROUND

The emollient base of a topical corticosteroid, through its moisturizing properties, can be a useful treatment adjunct.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the healing properties of Eumovate trade mark (clobetasone butyrate) 0.05% cream with its emollient base, hydrocortisone 1% cream and with no treatment.

METHODS

A single-centre, double-blind, intra-individual, comparative study that involved 18 volunteers with nickel-induced contact dermatitis. Following a positive patch test to nickel, sub-therapeutic amounts (10 micro l = 3 mg cm(-2)) of each of the treatments were applied twice daily for seven days to each of the four test sites.

RESULTS

In terms of the primary endpoint, a physician's global assessment after 7 days of treatment, clobetasone butyrate (CB) 0.05% cream showed a significantly better response than hydrocortisone (HC) 1% cream (78% vs 39%, difference -0.4, 95% CI -0.7 to -0.1; p = 0.046) or no treatment (78% vs 28%, difference -0.5, 95% CI -0.9 to -0.1; p = 0.016). CB 0.05% cream also showed a better response than its emollient base (78% vs 56%), though statistical significance was not achieved. In terms of moisturizing effects, there was no difference in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) between CB 0.05% cream and its emollient base. CB 0.05% cream treated sites did, however, have significantly lower values (i.e. were more moisturized) than untreated sites (difference -8.5, 95% CI -12.0 to -4.86; p < 0.001) or HC 1% treated sites (difference -7.1, 95% CI -11.0 to -3.4; p < 0.001). In terms of skin blanching activity, as expected the steroid-based creams achieved lower colorimetric values than the emollient base cream.

CONCLUSIONS

These results from experimentally induced skin inflammation indicate that CB 0.05% (as Eumovate 0.05% cream) has both more effective anti-inflammatory activity and better moisturizing properties than hydrocortisone 1% cream and that these effects are in part due to its efficient emollient base.

Clobetasol propionate lotion, an efficient and safe alternative to clobetasol propionate emollient cream in subjects with moderate to severe plaque‐type psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Various formulations of clobetasol propionate are currently used to treat psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, vasoconstrictive and immunomodulating properties.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy, safety and remission profile of clobetasol propionate lotion compared to that of clobetasol propionate emollient cream and lotion vehicle in subjects with moderate to severe plaque-type psoriasis.

METHODS

Multicentre, investigator-blind, randomized, active- and vehicle-controlled, parallel-group study.

RESULTS

A total of 192 subjects were treated: 82 with clobetasol propionate lotion, 81 with clobetasol propionate cream and 29 with the vehicle. Clobetasol propionate lotion was significantly more effective than vehicle lotion and was comparable in efficacy to the emollient cream after 4 weeks of treatment. Treatment success was higher for subjects in the clobetasol propionate lotion group than in the emollient cream group after 4 weeks of a treatment-free follow-up period. Clobetasol propionate lotion was safe and well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates that clobetasol propionate lotion is an efficacious, safe and well-tolerated alternative to the currently available emollient cream formulation, while showing a better remission profile after 4 weeks of treatment-free follow-up period.

Remission and relapse of chronic plaque psoriasis treated once a week with clobetasol propionate occluded with a hydrocolloid dressing versus twice daily treatment with clobetasol propionate alone

BACKGROUND

Many studies have shown the clinical efficiency of occlusion therapy for psoriasis, particularly corticosteroids used under hydrocolloid dressings. However, there are no data from comparative clinical studies evaluating the remission and relapse characteristics of such occlusion therapy compared with orthodox topical steroid monotherapy.

METHODS

In a randomised, open-label, parallel group study from three centres, the remission and relapse characteristics were investigated for the use of a hydrocolloid dressing (HCD) over clobetasol propionate 0.05% lotion once a week compared with the same steroid in ointment formulation used unoccluded twice a day in 61 patients with stable chronic plaque psoriasis.

RESULTS

There was a pronounced treatment difference in favour of the HCD + clobetasol propionate lotion group with respect to time to clearance, but there was little evidence for a difference with respect to time to relapse.

CONCLUSION

The combination of the HCD + clobetasol propionate lotion provides a fast and highly effective remission induction.