The 7 drug classes of topical corticosteroids have different indications
Steroid creams forpsoriasisare topicalcorticosteroids.
Available by prescription, these medications help to relieve the itching and discomfort of a psoriasis rash.
Topical corticosteroids come as creams, foams, gels, ointments, or solutions in a variety of strengths.
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Prescriptions commonly include clobetasol, triamcinolone, and hydrocortisone.
Topical corticosteroids can help treat psoriasis by:
This article discusses steroidpsoriasis creams.
It explains the different topical corticosteroids used to clear psoriasis and the potential side effects of these medications.
Corticosteroids mimic the effects of a hormone your body produces naturally in the adrenal glands.
The hormone, called cortisol, is released by the body to control inflammation.
With consistent use, steroid creams are often enough to clear up a psoriasis flare.
However, some people with psoriasis benefit from more aggressive treatments.
These includeUV light therapy,retinoids, anddisease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Topical Steroid Formulations
Not all topical corticosteroids are the same.
Ointments, for example, are typically stronger than creams and may be better for thicker plaques.
Foams are especially effective in that they penetrate into the deeper layers of skin.
Because of this, a less-potent corticosteroid may be sufficient when used in this form.
This is especially true with respect to the genitals and face.
Unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise, never apply topical corticosteroids to the eyelids or under the eyes.
Topical steroids should never be used internally or applied to cracked, bleeding, or infected skin.
Topical steroid treatment is typically used until the psoriatic rash clears up.
For more severe outbreaks, your dermatologist may start you with a stronger topical medication.
This can better penetrate thickened psoriasis plaques.
Once the major scaling has been reduced, you may be switched to a milder steroid cream.
Some corticosteroids are used on an intermittent basis wheneversigns of a psoriasis flarebegin to develop.
These will usually be milder (Class VI or VII) drugs that can be applied when needed.
Always check the expiration date and let your healthcare provider know well in advance if you need a refill.
Steroid creams and ointment tubes can get messy.
It can be helpful to store them in their original box with the prescription label.
Classes of Topical Steroids
Topical steroids come in seven different classes.
The mildest topical steroids, categorized as Class VII, include over-the-counter 1%hydrocortisone cream.
The strongest topical steroids, known as Class I, include more aggressive preparations like clobetasol.
It’s important that your psoriasis be treated based on its severity.
These ultra-high-potency preparations have the greatest efficacy overall but also the most side effects.
The likelihood of side effects increases with the drug’s strength and the duration of treatment.
Use the medication as prescribed and avoid using more than directed.
It is important to stop treatment and call your healthcare provider should any skin abnormality develop.
Any damage to the skin may be permanent.
Can Steroid Cream Make Psoriasis Worse?
On their own, topical corticosteroids should not cause psoriasis symptoms to worsen.
If stopped abruptly, topical steroids can cause withdrawal.
If you experience a worsening of symptoms during the tapering phase, call your practitioner.
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