Using Hydrocortisone for Childhood Eczema: Are TCS creams safe?

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Using Hydrocortisone for Childhood Eczema: Are TCS creams safe?

Prescribed TCS treatments range in strength from very mild (hydrocortisone) to super potent (clobetasol propionate-Dermovate) with gradations in between. GPs will typically prescribe very mild to moderate TCS creams for short periods (up to around 2-4 weeks) but refer your child to a consultant if stronger or more prolonged treatments are needed. There is no evidence that topical corticosteroids used by the father around the time of conception can harm the baby.

  • For more information on side effects, see the leaflet that comes with the medicine.
  • The itching causes children to scratch and this can cause significant damage to their already fragile skin.
  • The potency of steroid should be matched to the severity of the disease, using the least potent steroid that effectively controls the disease.
  • Other signs include burning or stinging, intense itching, peeling of the skin, or oozing open sores.

When your body suffers from an allergic reaction or irritation (as is the case with eczema or contact dermatitis), it releases inflammatory chemicals in response. These chemicals make blood vessels widen and cause the skin to become inflamed, swollen, and itchy. This can lead to your skin feeling very dry and painful, as well as looking red and irritated.

What are topical corticosteroids and why are they scary?

Because clobetasol propionate is relatively strong, overuse can result in more significant side effects. Use it no more than twice a day for a week, unless otherwise prescribed. Here at The Independent Pharmacy, we offer a great range of dermatitis treatments.

The most suitable topical cream for you will depend on the severity of your symptoms, and where on the body you are affected. For example, when looking to treat eczema on your face, milder creams are recommended. Milder creams will also be recommended when treating more sensitive areas of the body, while stronger creams are suggested for thicker skin (such as your hands or feet).

Eurax HC Cream 15g

There is also concern about the use of steroids on the face, particularly around the eyes. The reason for this is that if hydrocortisone or other steroids get into the eyes they can cause increased pressure within the eyeball. In Korea, a similar study was carried out, this one specifically surveying parents of children with eczema, and 67.5 per cent of parents showed steroid phobia.

Patients can experience topical steroid withdrawal reactions after using these products at least daily for long periods of time. It is not unusual for skin conditions to flare up or return shortly after stopping topical corticosteroids. However, very infrequently, a severe type of topical steroid withdrawal reaction can occur, which may also be known as red skin syndrome or topical steroid addiction.

Topical corticosteroids cannot cure these conditions, but can help relieve the symptoms. Potency of a topical corticosteroid preparation is a result of the formulation as well as the corticosteroid. The potency of steroid should be matched to the severity of the disease, using the least potent steroid that effectively controls the disease.

It’s very important people know how to use topical corticosteroids safely and effectively. We urge people who are affected to read the newly published patient safety leaflet and to speak to their doctor or other prescriber if they have questions and concerns. If you stop using topical corticosteroids after using them continuously for a long time (usually over 12 months in adults), you may have a withdrawal reaction. Your doctor may advise stopping the treatment gradually to avoid this.

Breastfeeding Advice

Medical professionals often talk about the ‘potency’ of topical steroids — how strong they are. Hydrocortisone butyrate is not normally recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Only use this treatment if a skin specialist (dermatologist) prescribes it and supervises your treatment.

How and when to use hydrocortisone skin treatments

For more information on side effects, see the leaflet that comes with the medicine. A FTU (about 500mg) is the amount needed to squeeze a line from the tip of an sildenafil adult finger to the first crease of the finger. It should be enough to treat an area of skin double the size of the flat of your hand with your fingers together.

Enhanced Services Survey for Patients

NHS England (NHSE) has published new prescribing guidance for various common conditions for which over the counter (OTC) items should not be routinely prescribed in primary care (quick reference guide). As a result of this phobia, lots of children are under-treated resulting in longer flare-ups and increased complications such as infections. The decision to start, stop, continue or change a prescribed medicine before or during pregnancy should be made in consultation with your health care provider. It is very helpful if you can record all your medication taken in pregnancy in your hand held maternity records.