Flumethasone is a glucocorticoid receptor agonist used in studies on plasma transcortin binding. It binds to the nucleus causing a variety of genetic activation and repressions. The anti-inflammatory actions of flumethason is thought to involve lipocortins and phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, which results in the inhibition of arachidonic acid and the control of prostaglandin and leukotriene biosynthesis. Flumethason suppresses the immune system due to a decrease in the function of the lymphatic system, a reduction in immunoglobulin and complement concentrations, the precipitation of lymphocytopenia, and interference with antigen-antibody binding.
Flumethasone pivalate is a topical difluorinated corticosteroid ester with anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and vasoconstrictive properties. A prompt decrease in inflammation, exudation and itching is experienced after application. It is commonly used in veterinary practice and has been used in cortisol assays to study early porcine conceptus development.