Desonide

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Cat Number

API638948

CAS Number

638-94-8

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Product Detail Description Scientific Support Customer Q&A

CAS Number

638-94-8

EINECS

211-351-6

Storage

Store at room temperature

Synonyms

Prednacinolone; DesOwen; Desonida; Desonate; Desonidum; Verdeso; Desocort; D-2083

Molecular Formula

C24H32O6

Molecular Weight

416.5

Smiles

C[C@]12C[C@@H]([C@H]3[C@H]([C@@H]1C[C@@H]4[C@]2(OC(O4)(C)C)C(=O)CO)CCC5=CC(=O)C=C[C@]35C)O

Appearance

White to off-white crystalline powder

Melting Point

274-275°C

Boiling Point

580.1±50.0°C at 760 mmHg

Relative Density

1.3±0.1

General Description

Desonide is a low‑potency topical corticosteroid belonging to the non‑fluorinated dihydroxyacetone class. It features a 16,17‑acetal group that enhances its lipophilicity and cutaneous penetration while minimizing systemic absorption. The molecule is structurally related to prednisolone but lacks a fluorine atom at the 9‑alpha position, contributing to its favorable safety profile and reducing the risk of skin atrophy.

Mechanism of Action

Desonide binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, and the drug‑receptor complex translocates to the nucleus to modulate gene transcription. It suppresses the production of pro‑inflammatory cytokines, phospholipase A2, and adhesion molecules, while also reducing Langerhans cell antigen presentation. This anti‑inflammatory action is achieved without significant mineralocorticoid activity, and the low potency limits hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal axis suppression.

Application

Desonide is indicated for the management of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis in both pediatric and adult populations. It is particularly suited for treating sensitive skin areas such as the face, intertriginous zones, and genital regions. The drug is also used as a step‑down therapy following higher‑potency corticosteroids and for maintenance of disease control in chronic inflammatory dermatoses.

In a hair solution formulation of the topical corticosteroid desonide (0.1%), common antioxidants (ascorbic acid, BHA, BHT, α‑tocopherol) failed to prevent photodegradation under UVA light. However, adding 0.3% of the UV filter benzophenone‑3 (BP‑3) dramatically improved photostability: after 15 hours of direct UVA exposure, approximately 98% of desonide remained intact. Protection was also observed under UVC radiation. The BP‑3‑containing formulation remained stable for 70 days under both accelerated and ambient conditions. The authors conclude that BP‑3 is an effective stabilizer for desonide in hair solutions.

Fig. 1 Residual content of desonide in hair solutions after UVA exposure (15 h). (Rosa P, et al., 2014)

References

Rosa P, et al. Investigation of the stabilizing effects of antioxidants and benzophenone-3 on desonide photostability. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2014;15(5):1155-1162.

Does Desonide require protection from light during long-term storage?

Yes, it is photosensitive. UV exposure can cause photodegradation and discoloration. Store in light-resistant containers, preferably amber glass or original opaque packaging.

What is the recommended storage temperature for Desonide?

Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid excessive heat above 30°C, which can accelerate oxidation and hydrolysis of the corticosteroid ring.

Is Desonide stable in topical cream and ointment formulations?

Yes, it shows good stability in common topical bases when protected from light and moisture.

How is the impurity desonide 21-aldehyde (an oxidative degradation product) monitored?

This degradation product is quantified using a stability-indicating HPLC method, ensuring it remains below pharmacopoeial limits for topical use.