Locoid

Locoid is an effective treatment for flare-ups of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

It contains a potent steroid that reduces inflammation and itching caused by these conditions. It is offered to those whose symptoms have not cleared with less potent treatments.

It is available in several forms, including a cream, ointment or liquid solution online at euroClinix.

Locoid contains the active ingredient hydrocortisone butyrate. It is a stronger version of the treatment hydrocortisone.

It is a type of steroid (corticosteroid) that reduces inflammation. It works against chemicals released by your cells that cause blood vessels to widen and cause the skin to become irritated.

This reduces symptoms such as swelling, itching and redness caused by psoriasis and eczema.

Locoid is suitable for most people with eczema or psoriasis. It is usually prescribed in cases where less potent steroids have not worked.

However, some people should not use it. This includes if you have:

• acne
• untreated lesions from a bacterial or fungal infection (e.g. cold sores, herpes, or athlete’s foot)
• rosacea
• perioral dermatitis (where the skin around your mouth is inflamed)
• widespread plaque psoriasis
• skin problems associated with syphilis (an STI)
• an allergy to hydrocortisone butyrate or any of the other ingredients

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should only use it if your doctor believes it is necessary. If that is the case, you should not use it for long periods.

If have one of these conditions, take any other medications or you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Locoid.

You should apply Locoid thinly 1-2 times daily to the affected area. How much you will need for a certain area is measured in fingertip units (a line from the fingertip to the first crease of the finger).

1 fingertip unit is enough for 2 adult hands.

To apply, you should:

1. Wash and dry your hands.
2. Spread Locoid in a thin layer over the area of skin.
3. Carefully smooth it into your skin in the direction the hair grows until it disappears.
4. Wash your hands afterwards (unless you are treating your hands).

If you forget to take a dose, do not take a double dose to make up for it. Simply wait for your next scheduled dose. If you take too much, you may experience side effects. Consult your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any side effects.

What precautions should I take whilst using Locoid?

Avoid getting Locoid in or on your eyes or on any broken skin.

If you are using it on delicate areas of skin (e.g. your face or your genitals), consult your doctor for specific instructions on how to use it.

You should avoid using Locoid for prolonged periods. Your doctor may recommend a treatment plan where you use it for a few weeks and then stop for a bit.

Using it consistently for long periods can increase your risk of topical steroid withdrawal - a condition where the steroid causes a rebound reaction in which the skin gets worse.

Do not smoke or go near open flames while using this treatment. Fabric stained with Locoid may be more likely to catch fire.

Like all prescription medications, Locoid may cause side effects.

The majority of side effects are rare or very rare. This means they may affect up to 1 in 1000 - 10,000 people. You may experience:

• skin thinning (atrophy)
• skin redness
• bruising
• stretch marks
• acne
• discolouration

A small number of people may experience an allergic reaction to Locoid. If you notice your skin becomes worse, consult your doctor as soon as possible.

For a full list of side effects, consult the patient information leaflet.

You can buy Locoid online here at euroClinix®. All you have to do is complete a quick online consultation which one of our registered doctors will review. Once approved for treatment, your order will be dispensed and dispatched to your door with free delivery.