Systemic Absorption of Topical Steroids

To measure the extent of systemic absorption of topical steroids, urinary excretion of 17-hydroxycorticosteroids and endogenous cortisol production rates were determined in four patients during a control period and then while receiving topical steroids. During the experimental period each patient received dexamethasone 0.01%, one drop to each eye every two hours. All four patients showed a marked reduction in corticosteroid production while receiving the topical medication.