DIPROSALIC OINTMENT 30GM

Diprosalic Ointment is a combination topical preparation containing Betamethasone Dipropionate (a potent synthetic corticosteroid) and Salicylic Acid (a keratolytic agent).

Betamethasone reduces skin inflammation, redness, and itching through its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Salicylic acid softens and removes the thick, scaly skin layers (hyperkeratosis) that characterise conditions like psoriasis, allowing better penetration of the corticosteroid into the skin.

In Kenya, Diprosalic is prescribed by dermatologists and general practitioners for chronic plaque psoriasis, hyperkeratotic eczema, lichenified neurodermatitis, and other thickened, scaly inflammatory skin conditions where a simple corticosteroid alone would have limited penetration. 

Diprosalic Ointment is for use on the body and scalp but not for facial, groin, or axillary use due to the risk of skin atrophy in those sensitive areas.

Application

Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area once or twice daily. Gently rub in until absorbed.

Duration

Use for the shortest effective period. Do not use continuously for more than 4 weeks without medical review.

Avoid Sensitive Areas

Do not apply to the face, groin, armpits, or broken/infected skin unless specifically directed by a doctor.

Occlusive Dressings

Do not use under occlusive dressings (tight bandages) unless prescribed, increases steroid absorption and side effects.

Hands After Application

Wash hands thoroughly after applying unless the hands are the treatment area.

Missed Application

Apply as soon as remembered and resume normal schedule. Do not double-apply.

Common Side Effects

·       Mild burning or stinging on application

·       Skin dryness or peeling (salicylic acid effect)

·       Temporary skin irritation

Uncommon Side Effects

·       Skin atrophy (thinning) with prolonged use

·       Striae (stretch marks) on skin

·       Telangiectasia (visible small blood vessels)

·       Perioral dermatitis or acneiform eruptions

Serious Side Effects, Seek Immediate Medical Attention

·       Systemic corticosteroid effects with extensive or prolonged use: adrenal suppression, Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycaemia

·       Salicylate toxicity (salicylism) with widespread application, headache, tinnitus, dizziness, nausea

·       Skin infections (secondary bacterial or fungal) due to immune suppression

·       Glaucoma or cataracts if inadvertently applied near eyes

·       POTENT STEROID: Betamethasone dipropionate is classified as a potent (Group III/IV) topical corticosteroid; use for the minimum effective duration.

·       SKIN ATROPHY: Prolonged use, especially in skin folds and on thin skin, causes irreversible thinning; review use after 4 weeks.

·       SALICYLATE TOXICITY: Avoid application over large body surface areas, especially in children and patients with renal impairment; risk of systemic salicylate absorption.

·       CHILDREN: Use with particular caution, children have a higher skin surface-to-body weight ratio, increasing systemic absorption risk.

·       PREGNANCY: Avoid extensive use. Topical corticosteroids can cross the placenta; salicylic acid also has potential teratogenic concern with large-area use.

·       INFECTION: Do not use on infected skin without concurrent antimicrobial therapy.

Salicylate-containing products: Additive salicylate toxicity if other topical or systemic salicylates are used concurrently; avoid.

Anticoagulants (warfarin): Salicylic acid may potentiate anticoagulant effect with large-area application; monitor INR.

Other topical steroids: Avoid using multiple topical corticosteroids on the same area concurrently.

Methotrexate: Salicylates can increase methotrexate toxicity; caution in psoriasis patients on systemic methotrexate.

·       Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.

·       Do not freeze.

·       Keep tube tightly closed after use.

·       Protect from direct sunlight.

·       Keep out of reach of children.

Diprosalic Ointment is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in Kenya due to the presence of a potent corticosteroid. Available at Pharmily with a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner or dermatologist.

Diprosalic is a Group III potent topical corticosteroid combined with a keratolytic, appropriate for thick, lichenified, or scaly inflammatory skin conditions. Counsel patients clearly on the 4-week use limit and the dangers of steroid overuse (atrophy, striae, adrenal suppression).

Flag the salicylate absorption risk for patients applying to large areas, particularly children, the elderly, and those with renal impairment. In psoriasis patients on systemic methotrexate, the salicylate component can increase methotrexate toxicity; check the full medication list.

Facial or flexural use should only proceed under explicit specialist instruction given the high atrophy risk. Verify no underlying fungal or bacterial infection is present, Diprosalic is not an antimicrobial and will worsen skin infections.

Q1: What is Diprosalic Ointment used for?

A: Diprosalic is used for thick, scaly inflammatory skin conditions such as chronic plaque psoriasis, hyperkeratotic eczema, and lichenified skin disorders where the scaly layer needs to be softened and inflammation reduced.

Q2: How does the salicylic acid in Diprosalic help?

A: Salicylic acid is a keratolytic that softens and removes the thick, scaly skin layer, allowing the betamethasone (steroid) to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively.

Q3: Can I use Diprosalic on my face?

A: No. Diprosalic should not be applied to the face, groin, or armpits without explicit specialist instruction, as the skin in these areas is thinner and more susceptible to steroid-related side effects like thinning and stretch marks.

Q4: How long can I use Diprosalic continuously?

A: Do not use for more than 4 consecutive weeks without a medical review. Prolonged use of potent steroids causes skin thinning and other side effects.

Q5: Can Diprosalic be used during pregnancy?

A: Avoid extensive use in pregnancy. Betamethasone can cross the placenta, and large-area salicylic acid use carries risks. Use only under strict medical supervision if the benefit outweighs the risk.