Vehicle augments the penetration of the steroid.
May also contain phosphoric acid, NF to adjust the pH to approximately 4.5. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory activity of the topical steroids, in general, is unclear. A 2 inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. The extent of percutaneous absorption of topical corticosteroids is determined by many factors including the vehicle and the integrity of the epidermal barrier.