Enhanced percutaneous penetration with 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one.

1-Dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one (Azone) is a new agent that enhances the percutaneous absorption of a number of different chemicals. This report delineates the enhancement of penetration of clindamycin phosphate, erythromycin base, fusidate sodium, fluorouracil, desonide, amcinonide, and triamcinolone acetonide. For this purpose 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one can be used in concentrations as low as 1%. It is colorless, relatively odorless, nontoxic, and can be applied neat to human skin without any irritation.