What is Supriad Cream used for?

Developed for the effective treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, Supriad Cream is a topical corticosteroid containing the active ingredient methylprednisolone aceponate. It is prescribed by doctors to help alleviate the redness, swelling, and itching associated with conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Quick Summary

Supriad Cream is a topical corticosteroid with the active ingredient methylprednisolone aceponate, prescribed to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and itching. The cream is suitable for acute and subacute weeping stages of eczema on exposed or hirsute areas.

Key Points

• Active Ingredient: Supriad Cream contains methylprednisolone aceponate, a powerful topical corticosteroid.

• Primary Uses: It is prescribed to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

• How It Works: The cream reduces inflammation, swelling, and itching by inhibiting inflammatory mediators in the skin.

• Optimal Formulation: Due to its high water content, the cream is best for treating acute or weeping eczema and is suitable for exposed or greasy skin.

• Duration of Use: Treatment should be for the shortest duration possible, as determined by a healthcare professional.

• Common Side Effects: Mild burning, itching, or redness at the application site are common side effects.

• Serious Side Effects: Prolonged or excessive use can lead to skin thinning, stretch marks, and systemic side effects.

• Contraindications: Supriad should not be used on viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, or on conditions like acne and rosacea.

The Mechanism of Action and Therapeutic Use of Supriad Cream

Supriad Cream contains methylprednisolone aceponate (MPA), a topical corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, itching, and vasoconstriction by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and inhibiting inflammatory mediators. Its cream formulation, an oil-in-water emulsion with high water content, is particularly effective for certain types of eczema.

Indications for Supriad Cream

Supriad Cream is primarily used for corticosteroid-responsive inflammatory skin conditions, including:

• Eczema: Especially effective for acute and subacute weeping eczema, greasy skin, and exposed or hirsute areas, relieving redness, swelling, itching, and irritation.
• Psoriasis: An effective treatment for the raised, reddened patches and silvery scales of psoriasis, applied as directed by a healthcare professional.
• Other Corticosteroid-Responsive Dermatoses: May be prescribed for other inflammatory skin conditions responding to topical steroids.

Supriad is a prescription-only medication and is contraindicated for viral, bacterial, and fungal infections, as well as rosacea and acne.

Proper Application and Duration of Treatment

Apply a thin layer of Supriad Cream to the affected area as directed by a healthcare provider. The frequency of application can vary depending on the condition being treated. To minimize side effects, treatment duration is typically limited to a specific period recommended by a doctor. Limit application to the affected area for the shortest possible duration to avoid risks like skin thinning and adrenal suppression.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Potential side effects of Supriad Cream include local and, in rare cases, systemic effects, especially with prolonged use or application over large areas.

Common side effects:

• Burning, itching, or redness at the application site
• Skin dryness
• Folliculitis

Rare and serious side effects:

• Skin thinning (atrophy)
• Stretch marks (striae)
• Acne
• Excessive hair growth (hypertrichosis)
• Skin discoloration
• Systemic effects like HPA axis suppression
• Visual disturbances

Avoid applying the cream near eyes or mucous membranes and consult a doctor for serious side effects or visual disturbances.

Comparison with Other Formulations of Methylprednisolone Aceponate

Supriad is available in different formulations to suit various skin conditions. NPS MedicineWise details the differences between Supriad Cream and other formulations.

Conclusion

Supriad Cream, containing methylprednisolone aceponate, is an effective prescription treatment for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, reducing inflammation, swelling, and itching. Follow doctor's instructions, adhere to treatment duration limits, and be aware of potential side effects, especially for large areas or children. Different Supriad formulations exist for specific skin conditions. Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

References

• [1] NPS MedicineWise. (2023). NPS MedicineWise
• [2] NPS MedicineWise. (2023). supriad® ointment, fatty ointment, cream & lotion (PDF)
• [3] PubMed. (2006). Methylprednisolone aceponate in eczema and other inflammatory skin disorders -- a clinical update. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16409433/]
• [4] NCBI Bookshelf. (2025). Topical Corticosteroids - StatPearls. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532940/]
• [5] myDr.com.au. (2023). myDr.com.au
• [6] 1mg. (2025). 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the active ingredient in Supriad Cream?

The active ingredient in Supriad Cream is methylprednisolone aceponate, a topical corticosteroid.

Can Supriad Cream be used for infections?

No, Supriad is a steroid and is contraindicated for use on viral (e.g., herpes, shingles), bacterial, or fungal skin infections.

How often should I apply Supriad Cream?

The frequency of application for Supriad Cream should be determined by your healthcare professional based on the specific condition being treated.

Is Supriad Cream safe for children?

Supriad Cream can be used in children under a doctor's supervision, who will determine the appropriate use and duration.

What are the common side effects of Supriad Cream?

Common side effects include a burning sensation, itching, redness, or dryness at the application site.

How long can I use Supriad Cream for?

The duration of treatment with Supriad Cream should be as short as possible, as determined by a healthcare professional, to minimize potential side effects.

Is Supriad Cream available over the counter?

No, Supriad Cream is a prescription-only medication and must be obtained with a doctor's prescription.