Effect of hydrocortisone 17-butyrate on the percutaneous absorption of antibiotics

Abrption of antibiotics from combined preparations containing oxytetracycline, chlortetracycline, doxycycline or gentamicin and hydrocortisone 17-butyrate into the skin of rats was examined. The penetration of antibiotics from the ointment into the skin was inhibited by 0.2% hydrocortisone 17-butyrate to a significant degree. It is suggested that this effect of hydrocortisone 17-butyrate is the consequence of its vasoconstrictor action.