a steroid ointment formulation which has enhanced physical and chemical stability is formed of 11β , 17α )- 17 -- 9α - fluoro - 11β - hydroxy - 17 - androsta - 1 , 4 - dien - 3 - one , and a vehicle containing as major ingredients propylene glycol and water , cetearyl alcohol and ceteareth 20 or other dispersing agent for propylene glycol , together with a sodium or potassium citrate and magnesium hydroxide buffer to impart a neutral or slightly alkaline apparent ph , a non - acidic long chain fatty acid wax to impart proper consistency to the ointment and sodium metabisulfite and butylated hydroxy toluene as antioxidants , together with thickeners , emollients , lubricants and other conventional ointment formulation ingredients .