3,20-Diketopregnenes having in the 11.beta.-position a group of the formula ##SPC1## Wherein R.sub.1 is alkyl and R.sub.2 is hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy, or halogen, and having a cyclic 16,17-acetal or ketal group, have useful anti-inflammatory activity.

A steroid formulation having enhanced properties for topical application comprises 21-chloro-9.alpha.-fluoro-.DELTA..sup.4 -pregnene-11.beta.,16.alpha.,17.alpha.-triol-3,20-dione 16,17-acetonide in a vehicle containing as major ingredients propylene glycol and water.

Steroid ointment formulations of the solution and biphasic types which are used as topical anti-inflammatory agents are provided wherein the steroid, such as 21-chloro-9.alpha.-fluoro-.DELTA..sup.4 -pregnene-11.beta.,16.alpha.,17.alpha.-triol-3,20-dione 16,17-acetonide, is at least partially dissolved in a ricinoleate vehicle such as castor oil.

Novel compounds useful as anti-inflammatories are represented by the formula ##SPC1## Wherein Z is a single or double bond; X and X.sup.1 are independently H, F or Cl; and X.sup.2 is OH or when X.sup.1 is Cl X.sup.2 may also be Cl. The compounds are prepared by reacting a suitable 21-hydrocarbon sulfonate steroid with an alkali cyanide.

The invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a cream base which comprises mupiricin dihydrate, a mineral oil, one or more fatty alcohols or fatty esters, a polyoxyethylene ether or ester surfactant, xanthan gum, water and a method for treating a bacterial infection using said composition.